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Victoria Molina

Estoy para ayudarte en reservar tu próxima actividad durante tu visita.

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Hola yo te acompañaré durante tu nueva experiencia en nuestras actividades.

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Blanca Bautista

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Reserve con la agencia 4 parques a un súper precio y un tour a Holbox y no me arrepiento en lo absoluto. tienen muy buenos precios y cumplen con lo que ofrecen. Sin duda los recomiendo ampliamente

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Priscilla Calderón

Excelente servicio atendieron todas mis consultas vía wathsapp, la forma de pago es muy segura, y en cada tour me confirmaban la llegada de transporte. agendé y pagué antes de llegar a Cancun. lo recomiendo 100%!!

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Milagros Suárez

Agradecida por la atención prestada. Logre hacer mis reservaciones desde Venezuela de forma sencilla y rápida. Los tours que contratamos fueron lo ofrecido y esperado.

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José De Santiago García

Excelente servicio y atención al cliente. Lázaro siempre estuvo al pendiente y brindando información sobre cada cosa todo el tiempo. Sin duda volvería a contar con ellos para mi próximo viaje. 

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Leidy Johana Coral

Excelente servicio al cliente, puntualidad y cumplimiento con lo ofrecido en sus planes turísticos.

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Diego Xavier Flores Estrella

¡¡Recomendado!! Excelente servicio de acuerdo con lo contratado. Además, la coordinación y comunicación muy buena y oportuna, en todo momento atentos. Nuestro agente Lázaro estuvo siempre pendiente y dando indicaciones claras y al pendiente del servicio.

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Leno Rodríguez

¡¡Excelente servicio!! 10/10 y precios muy buenos!! Comunicación al 100 con el agente del tour, Lázaro nos brindó un muy buen servicio 

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María Paz Fredericksen de la cuadra

Excelente servicio, 100% recomendado. Dan una atención de calidad y no debes preocuparte de nada más que disfrutar. Agradezco especialmente a mi asesora de viaje Paola Vásquez, por hacer de este viaje un placer 

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Diana Arevalo

Lo recomiendo, dan excelente servicio, atentos y cordiales en todo momento, resuelven cualquier duda inmediatamente, gracias, Lázaro 100% recomendado 

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Cielo Yamilette

Es una empresa completamente confiable. Cumplen en su totalidad con todo lo que ofrecen.  

Son responsables y tienes atención e información en todo momento.  Se las recomiendo ampliamente. 

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Sumaq Urpi Rojas Rondan

Mi agente fue Lázaro Hernández y ha sido más que amable y paciente, desde la elección de los paquetes, sugerencias y coordinaciones... ¡Todo cronometrado y organizado de cada tour! Ha sido una muy grata experiencia, lo recomiendo 100%

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Gran experiencia, tomé dos tours y fueron muy atentos, totalmente recomendable 10/10 

Un agradecimiento extra para mi Asesor Lázaro que resolvió todas nuestras dudas y siempre estuvo al pendiente. Estoy totalmente seguro de que volveré con ustedes. 

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Lo recomiendo, es una empresa confiable que cumple con todo lo que ofrece.  Tome los paquetes de Isla mujeres, Xenses, Xplor y Xcaret plus. Y todo excelente, nos atendió Paola Vásquez, una persona muy amable y profesional, resolvió todas mis dudas y nos realizó un seguimiento personalizado. 

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Mauricio Gonzalo Javier

Todo muy ordenado y coordinado. Tours confiables ya que abonamos antes y todo sin problemas. ¡¡Nuestra asesora Blanca Bautista muy atenta y pendiente de que cada tour saliera fenomenal!! 

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Ana Yanssy Cr

Súper recomendado. Gracias por todas las atenciones y a nuestra asesora Blanca por estar siempre al pendiente  

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Brian Cortez

¡El mejor servicio de excursiones entre los que conozco! ¡La calidad y carisma de sus empleados hacen que cada excursión sea un paseo que vas a querer repetir! ¡Aplausos especiales para Blanca, Diego y Dania!

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Sandra Herrera

Excelente atención, el asesor que me atendió en mi último viaje (Lázaro) siempre estuvo al pendiente de cada tour. Recomiendo la agencia 100%

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Syndi Malena Lopez Rulli

El servicio, atención y cortesía de nuestro asesor Daniel fue espectacular, excepcional y excelente. La coordinación de nuestros 5 tours por Cancún, excelente transporte, seguros, cómodos, los guías amables y divertidos, buena guía turística y coordinación de Place Travel. Altamente recomendada esta agencia por sus servicios, puntualidad y excepcional atención. Gracias 

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Gis Saligan

Súper recomendado, su servicio, cuenta con excelente atención y calidad. Mi asesor Lázaro, estuvo de la mano conmigo en todo momento, fue atento, amable y sobre todo responsable al aclarar todas mis dudas y apoyarme en todo lo que necesitaba. Los volvería a contratar una y mil veces más. 

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Paola López

Muy buen servicio, la pasamos genial mi novio y yo en Cancún, nuestra asesora vacacional Paola muy atenta y sobre todo contestando siempre mis dudas que se presentaban, coordinó todo lo necesario para nuestros tours, ¡recomendado!

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Paulina Macías

¡Confiable, puntual, serios y excelente atención! En especial gracias a Blanca, fue una excelente asesora.  Recomiendo llevar botanita comprada por ti antes de subir a los tours ya que puedes dejar las cosas en el autobús o transporte que vayas así no gastarás excesivamente en puntos turísticos. Muy seguro todo con ellos. 

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Traveling Canucks

Canada Family Travel Blog

Here’s what you need to know before you visit Xcaret in Mexico

01/16/2024 By Traveling Canucks 38 Comments Categories: Beach Family Travel Tips Mexico Sightseeing Travel Tips Trip Ideas

What you need to know before you visit Xcaret

Located in Mexico’s popular Riviera Maya, Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park with over 50 attractions. Visitors come to Xcaret to snorkel with fish, explore underground rivers and caves, learn about Mayan culture, see wildlife and enjoy its tropical surroundings. It has a lot of similarities to nearby Xel-Ha Park .

This family friendly adventure park is situated 60 km south of Cancun International Airport, 6 km from Playa del Carmen and 57 km north of Tulum. It takes about an hour to drive to Xcaret from Cancun .

We have visited the Riviera Maya several times before, but this was the first time we visited its amusement parks. After researching each one, and reading the recommended ages (our youngest is 4 years old), we decided to visit Xel-Ha and Xcaret on our most recent trip to Mexico.

Visit Xcaret Park and Save 15% by booking here .

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Table of Contents

This post was originally published in 2018 and updated January 2024.

Should you visit Xcaret? Is it worth it?

In our opinion, the answer is yes. However, you’ll want to be prepared before you go.

We learned a lot during our first visit to the park. The big realization was that we were not fully prepared for our visit. The purpose of this post is to share our firsthand experience with you so you don’t make some of the mistakes/assumptions that we did.

Below are a few things we learned while visiting Xcaret.

Xcaret map inside Mexico amusement park, Xcaret travel guide for travelling families

Xcaret park is really big

Xcaret is over 200 acres (81 hectares)! You’re unlikely to explore the entire park in one visit, especially with young children. It’s just too big to do it properly in one day.

We suggest you take a look at the map  and plan your activities in order of location.

A good way to organize your day would be to group your activities by sections, like South, North, East and West. Or, by water activities versus land activities. For example, you would do land activities in the morning and evening, and water activities mid-day so you avoid changing clothes multiple times a day.

If you’re traveling with young kids, we suggest you bring a stroller or rent one at the park.

They have single (299 pesos) and double strollers (399 pesos) available to rent. It’s a big park, so this is money well spent. Our boys were 6 and 4 years old during our visit and they complained that we were walking too much.

Keep in mind, it’s quite hot during the day. Bring hats and reef safe sunscreen .

pink flamingos inside Xcaret park in Cancun Mexico, family travel guide

Xcaret is very family friendly

If you’re traveling with kids 4 years old or under, admission to the park is free. Children between the ages 5 to 12 years old will get a discounted rate on admission.

It’s a good idea to bring or rent a stroller if you have younger children. Most of the park is flat and there are stroller friendly paths to most exhibits.

Kid friendly activities include: viewing jaguars, turtles of all sizes, sharks, manatees and coral reef aquarium. Children’s World , one of the newest attractions at Xcaret, has water slides, hanging bridges, cenotes, a parakeet habitat and a playground. There’s also a butterfly pavilion and wild bird aviary inside Xcaret.

Information about Xcaret activities can be found here .

Xcaret restaurant not all inclusive, things to know about Xcaret Mexico

Xcaret is NOT all-inclusive

Xcaret is NOT all-inclusive. If you are staying at an all-inclusive resort in the Riviera Maya, this may feel like a surprise. Some of the other adventure parks in the area are all inclusive, so this can be confusing.

You will need to bring cash and a credit card with you. There are extra charges for day lockers, strollers, snorkel equipment, towels, food and beverages. 

Related –  Everything you need to know about Xel-Ha Park

place travel mexico xcaret

Should you watch Xcaret Mexico Espectacular?

We made the mistake of not properly planning our time inside the park. We arrived early, around 9:30 AM. On the surface, this seemed like the right idea. However, if you want to attend the evening shows, we learned that an early arrival time is not ideal.

Our boys were pretty tired and cranky by 6:00 PM. There was no way they would survive the Xcaret México Espectacular evening show.

Because of this, we did not get to see the big show. This was unfortunate because we’ve heard it’s the highlight of Xcaret. We did see some of the actors in costume before the show began. It looks like quite the spectacle. 

Travel tip – Plan your visit to include the evening show. If you have young kids, it might be wise to arrive at the park late morning or mid-day.

place travel mexico xcaret

We did watch the evening horse show.

This Mexican cowboy show is quite entertaining and worth watching. If you haven’t had dinner yet, consider eating at La Cocina (located near the park entrance) because it’s right beside the horse show. The restaurant has some of the best seats to watch the show.

The horse show finishes before the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular evening show.

place travel mexico xcaret

Should you spend time at Xcaret Beach?

If your hotel or resort does not have a nice beach, you may want to save some beach time for Xcaret. It’s beautiful stretch of beach with safe and calm water, which is ideal for young children who cannot swim. The water is warm and crystal clear (see photo above), and the sand is silky smooth. And there are plenty of chairs and loungers available.

To keep the cove water clear, and the fish safe, you’ll want to bring special sunscreen with you. Xcaret asks that guests only use biodegradable sunscreen, because normal sunscreens contain oils that pollute the water and cause illnesses to the marine life. The park strives to protect the environment and they ask visitors to do the same.

If you don’t have biodegradable sunscreen with you, you can purchase a bottle inside the park. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to purchase before you leave home. You can  order it on Amazon here .

iquana Xcaret theme park, Riviera Maya travel guide

Related – Review of our stay at the Grand at Moon Palace Cancun

place travel mexico xcaret

Should you buy the Xcaret Plus Package?

Because Xcaret is NOT all-inclusive, you may find that the expenses start to add up. If you plan to eat while inside Xcaret, we suggest you purchase the Xcaret Plus package. Full details here .

The difference in price, from the basic admission, is an increase of $35.00 CAD per adult ($17.00 CAD for kids). The Xcaret Plus package gives you the following:

  • Access to Area Plus facilities including restrooms, dressing rooms and showers
  • Use of snorkeling equipment, life jackets and inner tubes
  • Safety bag service during the river journey
  • 1 Buffet lunch including 1 beer and unlimited beverages (soft drinks, flavored waters and coffee). There are 5 restaurants to choose from. The buffet costs $29 USD per adult, so if you plan to eat at the buffet, the price of the Plus Package will cover this cost.

Xcaret has optional activities for additional cost. Here’s the list

Build your own package and choose 2, 3 or 4 of the best Tours in Cancun and Riviera Maya.

Book online and save up to 25% at Xcaret

floating river inside Xcaret Cancun, Mexico family travel guide

Swimming in Xcaret’s underground caves

There are lots of things to do at Xcaret. Too many, actually (see the list of activities  here ). So, you have decisions to make.

One activity you can’t miss is swimming and snorkeling through the park’s network of underground rivers and caves. These sacred rivers and caves are unique to the Riviera Maya.

We underestimated the length and darkness of the caves, but you can exit at several stops along the way if you find it too long. Our 4 year old was a little scared of the darkness, and my father and mother (the kids grandparents, age 70 and 75 years old) found some sections to be too long.

Make sure you get a pair of fins. They make swimming through the caves so much easier.

If you purchase the Xcaret Plus package, you’ll want to find the dedicated Area Plus facilities to store your belongings. If you purchased basic admission, you’ll want to find day lockers to rent.

Last minute personal items, like shoes, hats, towels and wallets, are stored in a locked bag and transported to a station at the end of the river. You keep the key with you and pick up your belongings at the designated station. This is a nice service but it can be a little confusing.

When in doubt, ask questions.

swimming in the floating underground river Xcaret, swimming in cave Xcaret, Cancun Mexico travel guide

What to pack for a day trip to Xcaret?

Here’s what we recommend you bring with you:

  • Bottled water
  • Biodegradable Sunscreen
  • Snorkel gear
  • Waterproof Camera ( we use this one )
  • Stroller (if you have kids)
  • Wrap for over your bathing suit
  • Extra change of clothes
  • Sweater (it gets chilly in the evening)
  • Small snacks for kids
  • Comfy shoes AND a pair of flip flops (you will do a lot of walking)
  • Cash and credit card

Travel tip – write your name and phone number on your kid’s wrist band (guests receive a wrist band upon entrance). That way, if your child gets lost, they can show an employee the phone number to call.

Also, it’s wise to explain to your kids what to do should they get lost. Create a plan and communicate it to them. Have them repeat the plan back to you. 

Related –  Should you bring a car seat when you travel with kids?

place travel mexico xcaret

Above – a baby manatee swims with its mom at the manatee exhibit.

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Bring snacks and water with you

The park does not allow outside food, however, it’s a good idea to bring some bars and snacks for your kids. Our boys are always hungry, so they’re constantly snacking.

Our youngest boy is allergic to dairy and eggs, so we don’t know what food will be available for him. The park says it’s okay to bring baby food and milk/formula if you’re traveling with an infant.

Maya actors at Xacret Night show, entertainment at Xcaret theme park, family travel guide

Xcaret Park Hours of Operation

Xcaret Park is open 365 days a year from 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Regardless of when you plan to visit the Riviera Maya, you’ll be able to visit Xcaret.

According to the park website, the best days to visit are Saturday and Sunday because most hotel packages arrive and depart on those days.

If you’re traveling with young kids, and you want to watch the evening shows (it ends at 9:30 PM), we suggest you arrive a little later in the day. Have breakfast at your resort, then plan to arrive around noon and stay for the evening shows.

Xcaret night show, entertainment Maya warriors in character, family travel guide to Cancun Mexico

Xcaret Prices and How to get Xcaret Tickets

You can save 15% by booking online . There are different packages that include transportation, all inclusive food and options for additional activities like the Stingray Encounter and Swim with Dolphins.

The Xcaret Basic admission is $120.99 USD, while Xcaret Plus is $164.99 USD. 

You can also purchase Xcaret tickets at most of the resorts in the Riviera Maya, and if you stay at the Xcaret Hote l admission is included.

Xcaret Ticket Price for Children

The admission is free for children under the age of 4. Children ages 5 to 11 get a discounted rate from the adult ticket price. ID is required in both cases.

Accessing your Xcaret tickets after online purchase

When you purchase Xcaret tickets online you will receive a coupon. This means your purchase was completed. This coupon must be printed and presented at the park’s ticket booths, with the signed credit card used for the payment and an official ID. Then, you will receive your access bracelets.

Expect long lines to get your tickets at the Xcaret entrance. Because there are so many vendors, tour operators and hotels selling tickets to guests, it can be a long process.

Get up to a 25% discount on activities and tours in Cancun and Riviera Maya.

place travel mexico xcaret

How do you get to Xcaret Park?

Getting to Xcaret is easy. If you purchase a package, transportation is often included. Or, you can get a private transfer from your hotel or resort (that’s what we did).

The private transfer will pick you up at your hotel and drive you directly to the park entrance. It will also bring you back to your hotel at a time of your choosing.

We used Cheap Transfer Cancun. We actually used this company multiple times on our vacation to the Riviera Maya . The vans are new and they offer the proper car seat for our 4 year old. We would recommend them. Prices vary depending on distance and number of people. More info here .

We stayed at the Iberostar Del Mar and the trip to Xcaret was about 45 minutes. We paid $100 USD for a private transfer for 6 people (including car seat).

Staying at Hotel Xcaret

Another option is to stay at the all-inclusive Hotel Xcaret , which is connected to the park. This is by far the most convenient resort for Xcaret. The benefit to staying here is that admission to Xcaret parks and/or tours is included in the hotel price. 

Read this hotel review to learn more about Hotel Xcaret. Hotel Xcaret is a 5 star property so you’ll want to compare prices to find the best deal.

Compare prices for Hotel Xcaret Here .

dolphin area inside Xcaret Mexico, things to do at Xcaret Cancun, Mexico family travel guide

Read more posts about travel to Mexico

  • Una Vez Más! Our Vow Renewal in Mexico
  • Should you add Sayulita to your travel short list?
  • Then and Now. Our return to the Riviera Maya
  • 21 photos from our trip to Sayulita, Mexico  
  • Coati Invasion in the Riviera Maya

Have you been to Xcaret Mexico?

What did you think of the park like or dislike.

Share your experience and travel tips in the comments section below.

Related posts:

Norwegian Bliss

05/10/2018 at 4:37 am

Never heard of the Xcaret park. It’s such a fantastic place! A great place for the whole family to enjoy.

place travel mexico xcaret

05/13/2018 at 10:03 am

This Xcaret park seems incredible. I will put it as the next destination of my vacation. Thank you for the tips!

place travel mexico xcaret

05/22/2018 at 9:58 pm

The Xcaret beach appear me that has a endless beautiful. A few years ago i stayed at the Occidental Xcaret beach and several times walked into along the shore. It ios mostly rough ironstone with a few small patches of beach here and there.

place travel mexico xcaret

06/30/2018 at 12:19 am

Xcaret park is so interesting places, I never heard about this before. After reading this post I collect some information about this park and I like some interesting area. Kids can enjoy this place and also adults. Great featuring and wonderful place.

place travel mexico xcaret

07/17/2018 at 5:53 pm

We visited XCaret a few weeks ago. To say that it’s beautiful doesn’t do it justice! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Every question was greeted with a smile and useful answer with suggestions. The food is scrumptious and authentic. Please taste the molé and flan. You won’t regret it! The activities are unique and fun for all ages. Never a dull moment everywhere you go. The evening show, Spectacular Mexico, is a definite must-see! You will learn everything about the Mayan history and Mexico’s culture from it’s early beginnings that encompasses every state in the country. It will make you laugh. It will make you cry. It will make you love Mexico’s culture. It really takes 2 days to enjoy and experience everything. Wear comfortable shoes and swimwear underneath light clothes. You will WANT to get wet and jump into every watering hole. Just delightful!

place travel mexico xcaret

11/20/2018 at 10:18 am

We just booked our trip and are staying at the Occidental at Xcaret which is right next door to the park. My question is, can you enter and exit the park throughout the day or is it as soon as you leave you are done?

My husband and I will want to do a lot of things, but could also see us wanting to pop back to the resort next door for meals, shower, etc. but then go back for dinner show at Xcaret. Is this feasible?

place travel mexico xcaret

08/16/2019 at 11:44 am

We just got back 2 days ago from our family trip in the Riviera Maya. Xcaret park is amazing and yes you definitely need 2 days to cover all the park, we were able to go in and out as we pleased to any of the parks along with transportation but we stayed at Hotel Xcaret México (best decision it’s beautiful) which includes all the parks even Chichenitza one of the seven wonders of the world.

place travel mexico xcaret

07/26/2020 at 10:22 am

Yes, you can come and go as often as you wish. We always get a two day pass and eat our meals and rest at the hotel or pool!

place travel mexico xcaret

07/03/2021 at 9:38 am

Occidental has packages that give you a Jr suite and unlimited access to Xcaret. We are planning to go from Canada in March, 2022.

place travel mexico xcaret

10/12/2021 at 11:03 am

I have also booked the unlimited access to Xcaret through Occidental. Does this just include the in and out, or is the snorkel gear, river life vest, meal, included?

How long a walk is it into and out of the park to Occidental?

place travel mexico xcaret

12/27/2018 at 3:13 pm

Followed your post. Got good tips. We are here now. We are staying at Hotel Xcaret. NOT Occidental. The hotel resort itself is only 1yr old. This place is is amazing. I booked this because i never heard of an ALL inclusive that included ALL PARKS and Tours. This included buffet food at the parks. The hotel is built into the environment and ecologically responsible. This was one our 1st all inclusives and i dont think anything will come close to this in awhile.

This place is incredible. If you can stay in Hotel Xcaret its worth every penny. You may need at least 5 days to see this area.

place travel mexico xcaret

01/02/2019 at 10:54 am

Great to hear! Thanks for your comment, Syd.

place travel mexico xcaret

06/12/2019 at 9:34 am

Our upcoming trip is Friday 6/21/2019 to 6/30/2019, can’t wait! We are staying at Hotel Xcaret. Your post is good, but I am wondering when you traveled? I booked all inclusive at We are staying at Hotel Xcaret. Including 6 excursions. Just making sure this is true, that it is ALL inclusive?

06/12/2019 at 11:31 am

You’d have to check with your hotel. The theme park is different from the hotel.

place travel mexico xcaret

04/11/2019 at 11:55 am

Expensive to get in.Way too much walking,no trains,shuttles,nothing.You have to pay for lockers,ect of you plan on doing the wet attractions,then change back ect,alot of fussing.I didn’t feel there really was alot to see and do at the park for the money, and seemed like if you did it was additional money.The evening show was spectacular,very well done and the only thing I felt worth the money.I would not go back.

place travel mexico xcaret

05/15/2019 at 6:43 pm

We loved it…. it’s been about 5 years since we’ve been there. The Mexican show at the end is WONDERFUL! The moat with the BIG CATS was really cool… and the TURTLE SANCTUARY was AMAZING!!! I highly recommend going here. There’s a lot of walking, but it’s absolutely beautiful!!! Great job Canucks for your review!!!

07/09/2019 at 9:24 am

Thank you Cindy!

place travel mexico xcaret

06/07/2019 at 11:49 am

Went to one of the excursion and bought photos ,they give you a web site to go to along with a code to enter. I have been trying for 3 & 1/2 weeks to get get photos . I emailed several times with no response and tried calling and got no answer. They only hold your photos for a month, so we are gonna be out 80.00. I do not recommend getting any photos

07/09/2019 at 9:25 am

Oh no! I’m sorry to hear that Machelle.

We find that reaching out on social media is often a good way to get a response. I’d try twitter and facebook.

place travel mexico xcaret

06/22/2019 at 1:10 pm

Is it possible to get there with your own water? The website says it is prohibited. But do they really check all your bags?

We brought in a few snacks and water. Our youngest has allergies, so we always travel with snacks for him. They didn’t check our bags.

place travel mexico xcaret

04/13/2022 at 8:18 am

I was just there, for my first time, since moving to Playa del Carmen, over four years ago. LOVED IT!!! (I am a resident of Quintan Roo so I was able to purchase a one year pass-card for free admission to Xcaret for a year, as many times as desired. I will certainly be using it a LOT.

I brought a 1 liter bottle of water only half full to refill at the free water-refill stations throughout the park. That was suggested to me, the day before when I confirmed my ticket with official park office. She also advised taking only a small towel for drying off.

My friend, a Canuck, and a resident of QR, too, brought a giant beach towel and it really added a lot of weight to her back pack.. We are old broads and there is a lot of walking especially making ones way over to the beach area.

place travel mexico xcaret

06/23/2019 at 10:29 pm

Have visited park twice and will go again. The evening show is the best I’ve ever seen – so colorful!

place travel mexico xcaret

07/09/2019 at 7:22 am

Thanks for the information, it really helps us plan. Wondering what time the show starts (sorry you missed it). Is there plenty of seating or do you have to get there early? Do you have to bring your own water or can you get it there? Thanks!

07/09/2019 at 9:28 am

The horse show is at 6, and the evening show is at 7. When we were watching the horse show, we did see a lot of people walking to get seats for the evening show. I think they will always have room, but if you want the prime seats then it’s best you go a bit early.

We did bring a bottle of our own water into the park. They didn’t ask to check our bags.

place travel mexico xcaret

09/16/2019 at 5:52 pm

Thank you for the tips and the suggestions. We are heading there in November. Very excited to experience this. But will definitely take your tips under consideration when packing and heading to the park.

Thank you again, Denise

place travel mexico xcaret

11/06/2019 at 9:36 am

Which excursions or shows do you need to get reservations for ( before you go)?

place travel mexico xcaret

11/07/2019 at 6:17 am

Thanks for all your tips/ suggestions – we have purchased our tickets for a day at Xcaret during our January stay and are very much looking forward to the entire experience. (looks like the Mexican version of Disneyland). I understand they are very specific about the sunscreen – biodegradable for sure but is there a specific as to the SPF? Thanks in advance from Kingston, Ontario.

place travel mexico xcaret

11/11/2019 at 2:15 pm

can you bring empty water bottles that can be filled in the park?

01/21/2020 at 12:34 pm

Yes. We did.

place travel mexico xcaret

02/17/2020 at 5:51 am

Hey TravelingCanucks! Just wanted to say thanks for the information. We don’t have kids, but aside from that, what you wrote was pretty helpful. We’re on our way now. Yay! 😉

05/12/2021 at 11:24 am

Great! I’m glad you found the post helpful.

place travel mexico xcaret

02/24/2020 at 5:02 pm

Hi traveling canucks! Just wandering can my 2 year old son can come with us to swim to the river and caves? Is there an age limit who can swim? Thanks.

02/25/2020 at 10:12 am

I’m not sure about the age limit. Some of the caves are long and dark. Our youngest (4 years old at the time) did not like them. He found them to be scary.

place travel mexico xcaret

05/12/2021 at 10:27 am

Thank you Cam and Nicole for the detailed review! I’m so glad I made it to the horse show because you had mentioned it!

I stayed at Hotel Xcaret Mexico. At first, I thought it was pricey, but the price includes free access to all parks and tours so I realized it was a great deal! I loved it so much that I wrote a review here: https://luxuryunderbudget.com/travel/xcaret-hotel-review-playa-del-carmen/

If you come back again I highly recommend it! It’s so close to the park and you can take a boat to Xcaret too!

place travel mexico xcaret

06/04/2023 at 6:46 pm

Hi Traveling Canucks, Thanks for the helpful blog post!

Our 4 year old will get free admission, but how much will they charge for his lunch?? (we will get Xcaret plus with lunch included)

06/05/2023 at 2:32 pm

My assumption is that if you get lunch included, so will your child. But you’d need to confirm with Xcaret.

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Hotel Xcaret Mexico

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View prices for your travel dates

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  • Excellent 10,954
  • Very Good 840
  • Average 386
  • Terrible 461
  • All languages ( 12,859 )
  • Spanish ( 6,758 )
  • English ( 5,678 )
  • French ( 219 )

place travel mexico xcaret

" There’s more kids during the months of July-September, so plan accordingly. "

place travel mexico xcaret

" Please arrive to the hotel around 2:00 pm. "

place travel mexico xcaret

" Perfect place to visit. "

place travel mexico xcaret

" Stay a minimum of a week. I would skip the food at Trajinera next time. I’d definitely make sure to send itinerary one month in advance. "

place travel mexico xcaret

" Everything was perfect! "

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

HOTEL XCARET MEXICO - Updated 2024 Prices & Resort (All-Inclusive) Reviews (Riviera Maya/Playa del Carmen)

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The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Mexico's Xcaret National Park

Xcaret

Mexico’s Xcaret park in Cancun is an eco-extravaganza of things to see and do. Formerly an important Mayan port and town, Xcaret is the size of 40 football fields, and although it has been called Mexico’s Disney World, it’s unique for its insights into traditional Mayan culture and its luxurious location right on the beach.

Xcaret

Prices and Tickets

Entrance to the park is not cheap. Tickets usually cost just over US$100 for adults, and while there any many packages and optional activities available (including swimming with sharks, dolphin rides, and a traditional sweat lodge) most visitors find that the park’s regular activities keep them pretty busy for a day or even two days. The food here is expensive, so our advice is to buy the Xcaret-plus package that includes one meal while you are here. The package also includes free snorkel rental, which you will definitely want to have.

You can also buy tickets more cheaply online or direct through the Xcaret website. Do also remember to bring biodegradable sunscreen with you, or the park will force you to buy their own expensive brands. You can buy combo tickets that will give you access to both Xcaret and other adventure parks in the area such as Xplor , Xel-ha , Xenses , and Xoximilco .

There are several routes suggested by the park for different types of guest. The truth is that you don’t have to follow a route at all, but if you think your interests line up with a certain set of activities, it might be worth letting someone else plan your day. On the Ruta Del Río you will see all kinds of wild creatures up close, as well as archeological sites and an orchid museum; the Ruta Acuario allows you to see and interact with marine life such as sea turtles and sharks; the Ruta Playa focuses on the beach and snorkeling in the clear Caribbean waters; Ruta Delfines has more snorkeling options, lots of relaxing, and spa amenities; the Ruta Pueblo Maya engages guests with the history and culture of the area’s original inhabitants, including the games they played and the way they lived; and the Ruta México Espectacular offers Mexican folk art and the Virgin of Guadalupe Chapel.

Xcaret sea turtles

There are lots of eating options in the park, none particularly cheap, but many good. We suggest that you check out the traditional Mexican restaurants and skip the international food (you came to Mexico for the real thing, right?). El Manglar is probably the most highly recommended, but there are also La Cocina, and Cenas Mexico Espectacular, which is located right next to where the end-of-the-day show is held.

There are snack bars scattered throughout the park that sell cold drinks and simple stuff like hamburgers, and this makes for a slightly cheaper menu than at the full restaurants. You can’t bring food into the park, but you can re-enter if you would like to have a parking lot picnic and then come back. As mentioned above, paying for an Xcaret-plus ticket is a good idea if you know you are going to eat at least one meal here.

Unmissables

You won’t want to miss the incredible water activities available in the park: swimming in underground rivers, snorkeling in the Caribbean, even lying on the beach for a spell – the park’s location make it ideal for water babies of all ages. You also shouldn’t miss the end-of-the-day spectacle, which includes art, dance, music, and lights. It’s an homage to Mexico’s history, from prehistoric times through to today, using music and dance to illustrate the passage of time. The cost of the show is included in every ticket price and it starts at 7 p.m. daily.

End of the day show at Xcaret

Unusual Extras

Xcaret offers a few activities that you won’t be able to get at just any theme park . Though all their optional activities cost extra, if you are looking for a special something to do during your visit, look no further. The Xpá is located in a lagoon surrounded by underground rivers and you have the option of choosing between two different kinds of relaxing massage. The Xcaret Temescal is a ancient indigenous tradition that involves several ritual stages in a sweat lodge to cleanse your mind, body, and spirit, and a cooling swim afterwards. Xcaret also offer wine tasting in their wine cellar, with delicious Mexican wine and food pairings. Adrenalina is a high-speed boat ride out in the Caribbean. There are also a myriad of options for snorkeling, diving, swimming with dolphins and sharks, and visiting underwater landscapes as a couple or a family.

It’s important to get the lay of the land, and for first-time visitors, it’s recommended that you head to the top of the park’s lookout tour to get a sense of the park’s layout. Below is a sneak preview of the park; take a look in advance to help plan your day. You can use credit cards or cash here, and there are ATMs, but we suggest you take you cash out in advance and avoid high transaction fees.

Make sure that you take a look at the day’s shows and events when you arrive, so you can plan you time accordingly. You don’t need to rent a locker if you want to snorkel in the underground rivers, as at the beginning of the route you can lock your things into a bag that only you have a key to, and they will be sent to the end point of your swimming route.

Xcaret map

Finally, take time to relax and enjoy the scenery. There is much to see, but don’t spend the whole day running!

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Hotel Xcaret Mexico

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View prices for your travel dates

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  • Excellent 10,954
  • Very Good 840
  • Average 386
  • Terrible 461
  • All languages ( 12,859 )
  • Spanish ( 6,758 )
  • English ( 5,678 )
  • French ( 219 )

place travel mexico xcaret

" There’s more kids during the months of July-September, so plan accordingly. "

place travel mexico xcaret

" Please arrive to the hotel around 2:00 pm. "

place travel mexico xcaret

" Perfect place to visit. "

place travel mexico xcaret

" Stay a minimum of a week. I would skip the food at Trajinera next time. I’d definitely make sure to send itinerary one month in advance. "

place travel mexico xcaret

" Everything was perfect! "

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

Hotel Xcaret Mexico - UPDATED 2024 Prices, Reviews & Photos

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Price & Hours

  • Facilities 4.0
  • Atmosphere 4.0

Both experts and travelers say Xcaret is a sort of Yucatán-style Disneyland , a large outdoor "eco-park" filled with an aviary, a dolphin aquarium, a turtle sanctuary and a beach perfect for swimming, diving or snorkeling. The park also offers various excursions like dolphin interactions, stingray encounters, shark swims, snuba tours and speedboat rides. Stay the day at Xcaret then enjoy the evening events, which include a dinner show that showcases more than 500 years of Mexico history through historical reenactments, traditional dance and live music. Xcaret is home to a few dining venues as well.

Past visitors were big fans of Xcaret, noting that the park was filled with attractions, things to explore and activities to enjoy, though some do say it can get very crowded. Some also note Xcaret's admission fees are expensive, but most say it's worth it, calling out the well-maintained exhibits and beach, as well as the pleasant staff. Past visitors recommended setting aside at least one full day to take advantage of Xcaret's attractions and experiences. In fact, some said you could spend two days here and not see the same thing twice. Travelers also note you can save money by purchasing your tickets in advance online. 

Nearby Hotels

If you're hoping to spend lots of time at Xcaret during your Playa del Carmen vacation, it can help to book a nearby hotel. Options closest to the park include Hotel Xcaret Mexico and Occidental at Xcaret .

The park is open daily year-round from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Prices for admission vary depending on the ticket you purchase and the number of days you want to spend at Xcaret. If purchased online in advance, tickets start at about $130 for adults and around $100 for kids ages 5 to 11. There are build-your-own package options available and discounts if you book combo packages with photos, add-on activities or admission to its sister attractions. Keep in mind: Not all activities are included in the admission price. You can also add on transportation to and from the park. Xcaret is located about 6 miles south of Playa del Carmen. If you don't have your own set of wheels, you can reach the park via taxi (fares cost approximately $14 to $15) or by public bus. Buses to the park leave from Playa's main bus station on 5th Avenue. For additional information on Xcaret's attractions and admission costs, check out its  website .

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More Best Things To Do in Playa del Carmen

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#1 La Quinta Avenida

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watch out for locals on 5th Avenue who insist they're a waiter at your hotel. These savvy characters aim to trick you into visiting a local shop, where another person is ready to use high-pressure sales tactics on you. – Holly D. Johnson

Playa del Carmen's main street, La Quinta Avenida, runs parallel to the shore and serves as a pedestrian walkway for travelers and locals. The avenue is several miles long and is lined with an assortment of street performers, restaurants, hotels, hostels, condominiums and bars, making it one of the best nightlife spots in the city. 

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HOTEL XCARET MÉXICO

The best of mexico included.

Hotel Xcaret México is more than just a hotel in Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya; it’s a hotel that celebrates joy for life and our love for Mexico.

Set in a privileged location between the Mayan rainforest and the Caribbean Sea, Hotel Xcaret México perfectly blends in with the region’s spectacular ecosystem, surprising us with breathtaking views and sophisticated facilities.

The heart of Hotel Xcaret México goes by the name of: All-Fun Inclusive™, a hotel concept that includes access to all Grupo Xcaret parks, as well as additional benefits that enhance the premium comfort that only a Five Diamond hotel can offer.

ALL-FUN INCLUSIVE ®

Our All-Fun Inclusive™ concept is an experience that has redefined and surpassed the traditional all-inclusive hotel concept in Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya since December 2017.

All-Fun Inclusive™ benefits included in a Hotel Xcaret México booking are access and transportation to all Grupo Xcaret parks, premium dining experiences, and round-trip airport transfers.

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XCARET XAILING

The Hotel Xcaret México All-Fun Inclusive concept also includes transportation services to Isla Mujeres with Xcaret Xailing, on board modern vessels: ferries or catamarans.

The round-trip transfer to the Embarcadero Isla Mujeres by Xcaret in Cancun is in luxury coaches, exclusively for our guests.

place travel mexico xcaret

With 900 suites distributed throughout 5 buildings called Casas, Hotel Xcaret México offers a different experience in each Casa, catering to the different tastes of our guests.

Each Casa is represented by one of the universal elements, the foundation of the Mayan culture: Spiral, Wind, Water, Earth and Fire. Five experiences that will keep you in direct contact with nature, framed by the sumptuous views of Riviera Maya from the comfort of your suite.

Habitaciones | Hotel Xcaret México

With 11 restaurants to choose from, all tastes are catered to. Our Culinary Collective will pamper you with flavors that connect the magic of traditional Mexican food with the best of international cuisines.

Gastronomía | Hotel Xcaret México

SPA & WELLNESS

Inspired by the wisdom of many ancient cultures, Muluk Spa is a natural sanctuary that will renew your spirit with its selection of body and facial massages that take place inside natural caves.

Spa & Wellness | Hotel Xcaret México

Hotel Xcaret Arte

An Adults Only hotel inspired by Mexican art. It offers 900 suites, four rooftops, a speakeasy and nine premium dining experiences.

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La Casa de la Playa

The best boutique hotel in Riviera Maya , with an Exclusively Your Way concept that embraces tailor-made experiences and 24/7 personalized service.

The Fairytale Traveler

Hotel Xcaret Mexico Travel Guide – Escape to Paradise in the Riviera Maya

hotel xcaret mexico

Hotel Xcaret Mexico provided me with transportation and accommodations for the purpose of this travel guide. This article contains affiliate links at no cost to you.

Recently I took a trip to the Riviera Maya to be among the first ever to visit Hotel Xcaret Mexico both before its official opening and during its opening ceremony. I’ve put together this guide for those who want to escape to paradise but don’t have the skinny on where they can find it.

What is paradise? For some its toes in the sand, exotic birds, and Mai Thais by the sea. others, it’s any place that takes you away from your everyday life.

For me, it’s a place far away from work, but close enough to return to work without being jetlagged, teeming with mythology and folklore, and visually breathtaking. Mai Thais by the sea welcomed.

Tucked away in the Riviera Maya this all-inclusive luxury hotel is benchmarking paradise. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea and surrounded by ancient mythology adventures, it is the first eco-friendly resort built from the ground up in Latin America.

All you have to do is pack your bags to reach there through Cancun Airport Transportation . Leave the rest to them.

Tell you more? Gladly.

All Inclusive Resort in Mexico

Paradise by the Sea — Hotel Xcaret Mexico is a Luxury All-Inclusive Masterpiece of the Riviera Maya

Hotel Xcaret Mexico is the latest addition to the Xcaret family. It’s a magical place where eco-friendliness, sustainability, luxury, and adventure come together offering all-inclusive accommodations to guests traveling to the Riviera Maya.

Its contemporary rustic design blends Mexican culture with an organic, spa-like environment both in the suites and on the property. By day it’s an otherworldly paradise of caves, coves, rivers, and jungle.

By night fire-lit torches and lighting command attention as you are immersed in 360 degrees of ambiance.

hotel xcaret mexico

When I first arrived back in October for a site visit (pre-opening) I was completely blown away. Quite literally this hotel seemed like a mashup of Avatar’s Pandora and something from a far-off planet in Star Wars. I immediately fell in love with its organic lines and rustic contemporary design.

This place is not only surrounded by water, but the river runs through it offering spectacular views at every turn. Still, I had no idea what it was truly like until my recent overnight visit for its opening ceremony when I had the opportunity to stay for two evenings.

At this point, I was already sold on the ambiance of the property, but arriving would prove outstanding hospitality and comfort. From my bathrobe to my mojitos, every single thing was perfect.

It truly is paradise, and one I’ll be visiting for the rest of my life. If you’re planning a trip, here is just about everything you need to know about Hotel Xcaret Mexico.

hotel xcaret mexico

A Travel Guide to Earth’s Newest Magical Paradise

Everything flows® at hotel xcaret mexico.

EVERYTHING FLOWS® is the hotel’s service culture. From arrival to departure a team of hospitality specialists strives to anticipate your needs with the best of Mexican hospitality supported by avant-garde technology.

Just lay back and enjoy this experience.

  • Scheduled airport shuttle*
  • Semi-private and private transportation available*
  • 24 h room service
  • Wi-Fi included
  • Scheduled transportation to Experiencias Xcaret’s Parks and Tours
  • Babysitting*
  • Guest Service Manager to coordinate your activities*
  • Pool Concierge and Butler Service in Casa Fuego, Casa Tierra, and Casa Agua

*Charges and/or restrictions may apply, upon the booked experience accommodation

What type of suites are available?

hotel xcaret mexico

The hotel offers a variety of accommodations to include regular, junior, swim-up, and master suites with garden, sea, pool, and river views.

Suites include:

  • Espresso coffee machine featuring authentic Mexican Coffee
  • Mexican style hammocks on the balcony
  • Vanity mirror
  • Robes and slippers (only for guests at Casa Tierra, Casa Fuego and Casa Agua)
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Security box
  • WiFi included
  • In-room amenities
  • Air conditioning
  • 55” flat-screen TV

What’s included in their all-inclusive?

Could you imagine going to an all-inclusive resort and never having to worry about paying more money for parks?

The hotel’s All-Fun Inclusive® program means that as long as you are a registered guest, you automatically have unlimited access to Xcaret Parks: Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xoximilco, and Xenses, as well as deluxe Tours to Xenotes and Xichen, with dining plans and round-trip transportation, included.

So you and your family need only worry about packing your bags and booking your flights. Hotel Xcaret Mexico will pick you up from Cancun airport (extra fee) and deliver you to paradise.

And when you’re ready to visit one of their parks, just call the front desk and they will arrange transportation for you.

Wait, what are Xcaret Parks and Tours?

If you’ve been following my adventures then you’ve likely seen that I’ve been working with Xcaret Parks for years now. Xcaret Parks and Tours are eco-archaeological parks set in the natural landscapes of the Riviera Maya where the jungle meets the sea.

Wrapped in underground river systems, waterfalls, caves, and cenotes, Xcaret Parks offer unforgettable experiences rich in the culture and ancient mythology of Mexico. Each park is like a magical jungle adventure where no expense is spared on details.

You could find yourself in underground caves, beside waterfalls or rope swinging into a crystalline river. The adventures are countless.

Here’s a brief summary of each park:

Sacred Mayan Journey Xcaret, Gauge Rybak, Kidfriendly

Xcaret Park — Cultural heritage and love for the environment await you in one of the best family theme parks in the world. Delve into the trails of Xcaret to discover how the Mayan jungle and culture of Mexico combine in more than 50 attractions.

Located on the seashore in the Riviera Maya , Xcaret is truly a magical place.

Check out my photo journal of Xcaret Park or my Day of the Dead Festival experience from last year.

Xplor — 65 million years ago a 10 km-diameter asteroid struck the Yucatan peninsula. Over millions of years, nature sculpted the underground landscape of caves, caverns, and rivers. Miraculous stalactites and stalagmites began taking shape creating stunning underground decorations and exposing precious fossils.

In this adventurous eco-archaeological setting you can experience six activities: zip-lines, amphibious vehicles, rafting and swimming in underground rivers, and spelunking, and a hammock splash.

Check out my last adventure to Xplor here .

Xplor Fuego —  After sunset, Xplor Fuego takes Xplor to another level that invites you to discover new adventures to the scene of fire-lit torches, fireflies, bonfires, and stars that light up caves, paths, and bridges.

Zipline at sunset, venture into the dark jungle, plunge into refreshing waters of an underground river, or just enjoy the atmosphere of the jungle at night.

xenses park

Xenses —  15 activities will take you on a fantastic journey through air, land, and water to revive your senses and awaken those you didn’t know you had. This is an experience full of challenges for your mind and body in a world of sensations.

Harmonize your senses as you journey through caverns, gardens, a town, rivers, waterfalls, and much more. It’s an attraction unlike any I’ve ever experienced before.

Check out our associate Editors Nia and Tim’s adventure to Xenses here .

Xilco Milco — Your party night out in Cancun and Riviera Maya! Live the joy of the Mexican culture, customs, and traditions through music, dance, games, and food in an excursion onboard colorful party barges across unique scenery from Mexico accompanied by family, friends and an animated host.

Xenotes Tour — Cenote is Mayan for “cave with water”. These caves are deep and filled with water from underground rivers. Ancient Mayan communities had a strong connection with cenotes, as it was their source of water and the entrance to the underworld.

A professional tour of four different types of cenotes in the heart of the Mayan jungle will challenge you as you descend by assisted rappel to a wonderful turquoise blue water cenote, sheltered by an ancient cave. You will be refreshed as you zip line into a cenote and you will feel adventurous as you kayak through a magical cenote of exotic vegetation and stone walls.

Xel-Há — Imagine a magical seaside paradise steeped in mythology and lore. This nature lover’s dream is a natural aquarium that sits on the Caribbean Sea in the Riviera Maya and is a model for sustainable tourism development.

Ancient Mayans baptized this site with the name Xel-Há which means, “where water is born.”

Xel-Ha Park, Gauge Rybak, Kidfriendly

Legend says that Xel-Ha was created by Mayan Gods. Pleased with its beauty, they permitted mortals entry to their paradise. But first, the Gods appointed three guardians to care for it:

Huh, the Iguana, Guardian of the Land, Chuc Kay, the Pelican, Guardian of the Air, and Kay Op, the Parrotfish, Guardian of the Water. It is said that these guardians still protect and care for the Park and everyone who comes to visit.

Check out my last adventure to Xel-Ha here .

Xichen Tour —  Three spectacular archaeological ruins of ancient Maya and two mysterious cenotes can be toured with Xichen Tours to include; Chichén Itzá , Tulum, Cobá, Zací Cenote and the Sacred Blue Cenote at Ik’kil as well as La Casona, an 18th-century colonial mansion.

Chichén Itzá is an ancient Mayan city known for being the first one to worship the feathered serpent god, Kukulcán. Its main building, the Pyramid of Kukulcán or El Castillo, is an exact three-dimensional calendar, perfectly represented throughout its structure with the number of days, weeks, months, and years, which we use to this day.

It is the most representative icon of Mayan culture . Nearby the Pyramid of Kukulcán you will see “The Sacred Cenote” for the remains and jewelry discovered inside confirm that it was used for religious ceremonies in honor of the rain god.

Tulum is the only archaeological site built beachfront and is the best-preserved. Its natural beauty paired with architectural magnificence draws spectators and is heavily photographed.

Cobá is home to the tallest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan and the second tallest in the Mayan world. The pyramid of Nohoch Mul measures 138 feet, the equivalent of a 10-story building. Here you can find the famous “end of the world” inscription, the Stela One.

Zací Cenote is one of the largest, most impressive open cenotes in Yucatan . It is located a few blocks from the main square of Valladolid and it is the place where the legend of the love of Zac Nicté and Hul-Kil arose.

Sacred Blue Cenote at Ik’kil allows you to immerse yourself in waters once only accessible by Mayan kings. Surrounded by trees and lush vegetation falling like waterfalls you’ll find yourself in 131 feet of crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming and admiring goldfish, catfish, even small turtles.

La Casona is an 18th-century colonial mansion once owned by a governor of Yucatan, General José Iturralde Draconis. Here past splendor is combined with the mixture of flavors of the present as guests are invited to admire its architecture and culinary delights of pre-Hispanic ingredients such as corn, achiote, pumpkin seeds, and habanero chile, with those brought from distant lands like garlic, pork, chicken, and almonds.

What Can Kids do?

hotel xcaret mexico

Little kids can learn about Mexican culture as they enjoy a wide array of activities that have been specially designed to let their imagination and creativity run free.

There is a Kid Zone for younger kids and a teenager zone for older kids. So, you can sit back and get some much-needed you time. There is also a place for teens to hang out and a kid ‘s-only only pool.

What’s Casa Fuego all about? The adults-only section of the resort

hotel xcaret mexico

Casa Fuego is a seaside building with a rooftop bar designed for adults only. This means no kids around for those looking for peace and quiet.

Let’s talk about dining!

hotel xcaret mexico

Ten restaurants and eight bars at Hotel Xcaret Mexico will prove mouth-watering as you’re taken on a culinary journey across the globe. Elegant Mexican-inspired ambiance, Asian-inspired contemporary design, ancient Mayan-inspired seaside eateries, and romantic cave dinners are just some of the scenes that you’ll find on the property.

And need I even tell you how fabulous swim-up bars are?

hotel xcaret mexico

Among the many amazing restaurants on-site, several stood out to me for their incredible food, convenience, and atmosphere. The El Mercado Restaurant which is the main go-to spot for buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner offers farm-to-table ingredients and a chef who will make your food fresh.

There were a lot of options here for anyone with special dietary needs as well, including fresh seafood.

I also love the atmosphere and outdoor seating option. Xin-Gao also delighted my senses with ambiances and delicious Asian offerings like Hibachi and sushi.

La Trajinerawon my heart for its location by the sea, view of one of the hotel’s infinity pools, and the option to strip down into my bathing suit and hit the swim-up bar immediately after. The fact that my server told me I was “his Queen” didn’t hurt either.

hotel xcaret mexico

Holding a special spot on my list is Ha.  This contemporary dinner restaurant   invites guests (at an extra cost) to enjoy a water vortex, a unique cocktail bar, and a private cava and dining room. But even more appealing are the culinary masterpieces created by Executive Chef Carlos Gaytán.

Gaytán, known as Mexico’s first Michelin Star chef , owns and operates Mexique Chicago and is also the third placeholder for America’s Top Chef. I had the chance to meet Chef Carlos and enjoy his distinctive offerings to which I was officially addicted and am now considering dinner in Chicago.

Yeah, it was that good.

Additional Adventures and on Site Amenities

You don’t have to leave the hotel to have an adventure. You can spend the day kayaking in the hotel’s turquoise river, jump out and explore caves or relax in a riverside hammock.

Or maybe you’d rather hike in the jungle? After a long day of relaxing, why not relax more at the hotel’s spa where you can get hydrotherapy, massages, facials, and even sit in a traditional Mayan cave sauna. If you’re really dedicated, make your way over to their massive gym equipped with every Life Fitness machine you can imagine.

Watch My Hotel Xcaret Video Here:

Check out My Photo Journal!

First impressions — the check-in area .

hotel xcaret mexico

The Property

hotel xcaret mexico

When the Sun Goes Down

hotel xcaret mexico

Practical Advice

Be sure to pack clothes for resort casual wear, resort dress wear, adventure wear and multiple bathing suits. You’ll also want that backup charger for your phone so you can be sure to always get a photo (there are many places to be inspired).

Also, I highly recommend you get a waterproof case for your phone so you can adventure on. Sandals and comfortable footwear is recommended for both the hotel and the parks. Also, bring a small backpack for day trips.

Here are some of my favorite travel items for Xcaret Parks and this hotel:  

Click the image to shop on Amazon

71%2BqpsRUlOL. SL1280

Heavy-duty backup charger slim like phone

71TOb4RnHwL. SL1350

Waterproof daypack for traveling

Women’s waterproof Sketchers

Waterproof Crocs for kids

This hotel just changed the escape to paradise game for American travelers. Direct flights to Cancun will get you to the otherworld-like paradise in no time and leave you refreshed and ready to face the world (rather than jet-lagged and in need of a vacation from your vacation).

Take a trip to the Riviera Maya and find out why this hotel is my number one favorite in the world.

  • X (Twitter)

Christa Thompson is the Founder and Chief Editor of The Fairytale Traveler. She started traveling the world in 2003 when she attended a summer abroad study at the University of Cambridge in England. Since then, her wanderlust has been fierce. Her three passions in life are her son, traveling, and being creative. The Fairytale Traveler brand gives Christa the opportunity to do all of these things and to live intentionally every day. "It's never too late to believe in what you love and to pursue your dreams." -Christa Thompson

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I am here freezing and trying to work and then you show me this amazing resort. I want to go yesterday and leave it all behind. I love the restaurants,views and amenities and would go in a nanosecond.

That has to be the most beautiful hotel I’ve ever seen. It really does look like a giant blue cat person connected to a horse by their ponytail is going to run across the picture at any second.

WOW! Talk about paradise. I would absolutely LOVE to go stay there someday.

Wow, the an amazing place to stay. All of the photos are absolutely gorgeous!

I want to vacation here! I love that they offer babysitting, and there is an adults only section. I also want to do some xploring of the underground caves and caverns. That sounds so interesting.

I was just reaching places to go in Mexico and this place look stunning! I am so going to look into this for our next trip!

How absolutely stunning is this place! I love the whole location and everything that’s inside it! I think it’s perfect for a week long holiday that you’ve been dreaming of. It’s definitely worth going to.

We are still deciding on if we want to hit up Mexico or the Bahamas this year. I think you have me sold on Mexico with a stay at the Xcaret! What a stunning place to unwind!

Wow, the kids activities look amazing. It could be a wonderful family vacation.

OMG. I see all photos and I want to be there! I feel so sorry for myself, feeling under the weather (with the flu), and all bundled up to keep myself warm. Oh, that catwalk like pool. That resort is paradise!

oh em gee! i am looking at these pictures and i am like “i need to go there” this hotel looks so amazing! everything! the food, the place, the rooms!

This place is gorgeous! It is incredible they provide babysitting but I would be a little nervous to just leave my child behind in another country. You images are incredible! I want to leave today! 😉

This is absolutely AMAZING. I think you’ve found my idea of heaven, how beautiful is this! All your pictures are gorgeous and with each one I want to go more and more! I’m writing this place down and I’ll hope one day I will be lucky enough to visit!

What a GORGEOUS resort!! I was in Mexico last year in Riviera Maya and this just brought back sooooo many wonderful memories. ❤️

Xx, Aïchatou Bella

Wow!!! That is such a breathtaking place to visit with the whole family. The beautiful scenery is so fulfilling. I will definitely add this to my travel lists.

I have always heard great things about hotels in Riviera Maya! This one is probably my new favorite! It looks PERFECT for a nice long vacation! I definitely would love staying there lol

Wow all of these amenties! What a fun trip!

This hotel looks simply beautiful and amazing! Definitely looks like a true paradise I would definitely love to stay here for all it has to offer. Thank you for sharing!

Lovely article with beautiful snaps ; much appreciated by https://travelbourne.com/ .

Whoah! I’m finding it hard believing the resort is real. Riviera Maya is so beautiful. Plus it’s in Mexico. I got to see it soon.

I think I should live here why just vacation? Seriously, this is the most beautiful place I have ever seen and you captured it so well! From the rooms to the restaurants purely beautiful and the lands make me want to be there now, out of this dreary NY winter and into that beautiful warm place. A section for just adults captured my attention as well. I love my grandchildren but there is nothing like peace and quiet.

Wow, this place is gorgeous. All of the food looks amazing too. I need to vacation here immediately.

Wow! gorgeous place. This hotel has a ton of amenities and I can see myself totally relaxing here! You have captured some really good photographs.

Extremely helpful info and the shots are awesome- thanks for sharing this!

A really very detailed article and lots of beautiful images. Infact I learned how to plan a detailed guide based on the style of writing used over here. Thank You.

Thank you so much!

WOW!! Christina first let me tell you how awesome are your photos!! I could literally sense everything of the resort! I really enjoy reading everything you had to say of this great experience!! I really want to make a reservation into this hotel it seem very pretty and the best of all it’s the touch of nature that you can feel, also that you can enter into de parks of Xcaret or Xel – Ha or Explor it’s a great bonus, i would love to go as soon as possible to be part of this experience!

Thank you so much! I hope you get there! It’s an incredible place!

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The Family Voyage

Xcaret Park Mexico: 20+ Tips & Tricks to Make the Most of Your Visit (2023)

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place travel mexico xcaret

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place travel mexico xcaret

Looking for a fun activity near Playa del Carmen that’s great for adults and kids alike? Look no further than Xcaret Park , often rated as the best theme park in the world.

Our family’s Xcaret Mexico park review is overwhelmingly positive and we’re all excited to return in the future to check out some of the adjacent parks (especially Xenses and Xel-Ha ).

But planning a visit to Xcaret Park in Mexico can be a little overwhelming. Be sure to read all of our Xcaret tips and tricks to make the most of your visit and enjoy all the best Xcaret activities without the stress!

Read more: In-depth Xcaret Hotel review

Park Xcaret Tips & Tricks Before Your Visit

place travel mexico xcaret

Before you visit Xcaret Park , it’s important to understand what it is and what it isn’t. You can think of XCARET! Park kind of like a Mexico theme park, but instead of focusing on illustrated characters and thrill rides the attractions are centered around Mayan culture and Yucatán peninsula wildlife. That doesn’t mean it’s all fake: the Mayan ruins within the park are genuine remnants of the ancient seaport town, while the cemetery contains recreations of unique and colorful graves from around Mexico. Visiting Xcaret isn’t a substitute for exploring the Yucatan peninsula but it’s an extremely fun way to get a taste of the Indigenous culture and nature. It’s part theme park, part eco park, and part water park. A good way to describe it is the Xcaret adventure park!

place travel mexico xcaret

Expect crowds, especially during holiday periods. We visited the week before Christmas and it felt packed. The crowd was a mix of Mexicans and Americans with a smattering of other nationalities thrown in. It’s popular with everyone who vacation in the area, especially those visiting Riviera Maya with kids! If your travel crew includes any small children, be sure to explain to them how important it is to stick together. If you’re blessed with a runner, you may need to use all the tricks up your sleeve!

Try to arrive as close to opening as possible – 8:30 as of this writing. It won’t be as crowded and you’ll be able to see and do more!

Xcaret Park Tickets

If possible, buy your tickets in advance rather than buying Xcaret tickets at the door. We didn’t because we’d had some stomach upset in the family and weren’t confident everyone would be up for such a big day, and it cost us an extra $10 per adult and $5 per kid. Ouch! Sometimes you can even get additional promotions here. In addition, the line to enter was quite long – about 20 minutes. There are also additional ticket booths inside, and you can try your luck with those to see if they’re faster. 

Annoyingly, you have to walk alllllllll the way through the gift shop to enter. This is an easy place to get separated, especially with small kids. If you have young ones who can’t resist the power of a souvenir, you may want to carry them. Just power through and find the exit so you can get to enjoying the park!

What to Bring to Xcaret Park

place travel mexico xcaret

Prepare to walk a ton! We clocked about 15k steps. I was fine in my favorite flip flops because they’re very supportive but if you have grumpy feet, wear something comfortable. 

Wear your swim suit instead of (or under) regular clothes. My daughter and I wore two-piece suits topped with a rash guard and shorts, while the boys wore trunks and rash guards. That saved us time so that we didn’t have to change for water activities. We packed everyone’s dry clothes and our travel towels in these wet bags , so at the end of the day we had the perfect spot to store our wet swimsuits. 

place travel mexico xcaret

Bring sunscreen and bug repellant. We made it just fine with a single application of sunscreen, but if we’d spent more time in the afternoon sun we probably would have reapplied. We didn’t find the mosquitos too vicious but perhaps that’s because we preemptively wiped our legs down with these . They’re super handy and I just wish I’d done another round in the late afternoon!

There are water bottle filling stations everywhere. Just bring one bottle – I recommend this insulated bottle , which we bring everywhere!

place travel mexico xcaret

If you plan to experience the underground rivers (which you should) I recommend bringing a waterproof pouch for your smartphone . You’ll definitely want Xcaret park photos and videos of the experience!

Read more: Your ultimate Mexico packing list

Xcaret Activities: The Best Things To Do In Xcaret

place travel mexico xcaret

There’s a giant Xcaret park map when you enter with a QR code. Open it and save it to your phone. You’ll need it! We found the park to be pretty confusing to navigate, even with the map. There are signs everywhere but they don’t always work out exactly as you plan. We managed to get ourselves lost a few times unfortunately and definitely burned some much-needed time that way. 

two scarlet macaws on a perch at Xcaret Park in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

The different zones are broken up by colored lines on the ground. Our recommended Xcaret park itinerary is to start your day with the white line, which takes you to the Mayan Village (including the birds, butterflies and jaguars). Pro tip: start with the aviary when you get here. There’s strong directionality to it and it feeds you in to the butterflies. Of course don’t miss the cultural attractions in this section as well! Next, try to find your way to the blue line for aquatic creatures. Then hook up the the green line (Playa) to make your way to the “snack bar.” After lunch, go back toward the park entrance to begin the underground river.

place travel mexico xcaret

Speaking of snack bar… clearly the definition isn’t the same as in America. This is a sit-down eatery with waiters bringing hot food and cold drinks. It can be extremely hard to find, but is worthwhile. Why? Because in the blue section you’ll encounter an extremely crowded buffet restaurant that charges $35 USD per person (same for kids) for a crowded and heavy buffet lunch. By contrast, the snack bar offers a la carte option like chicken fajitas for $10 USD and a hamburger for $12 USD. It also has a fantastic view out to the water! It can be hard to find but it’s worthwhile if you’re put off by Xcaret food prices; just follow the green line and if you aren’t sure, ask a staff member. Note that guests of Hotel Xcaret have access to the buffet for free and it’s also included in the Xcaret Plus package.

place travel mexico xcaret

Don’t plan to do everything, you’d really need two days for that. The Mexico Xcaret park offers far too much to fit in one day! We plan to return again a different year to experience even more. For example, our kids were really excited to do the cacao workshop, but it’s a 45 minute experience and the timing wouldn’t have worked out for us this time. We didn’t make it anywhere near the Children’s World either!

place travel mexico xcaret

One activity we deliberately skipped (and we hope you will too) is Xcaret’s extensive dolphin encounter program. They have several options that range from hanging out in the water with dolphins in a group of 10 people to actually riding on the dolphins. We don’t consider ourselves zealots, but can’t get on board with that kind of forced up-close animal interaction. If you’re on the fence, please research carefully before you book one of these experiences. Our kids were pretty upset to see the dolphins being handled by other visitors.

We brought our own snorkel gear, but honestly the snorkeling inlet (near the snack bar, in the green section) didn’t look that great. It’s also extremely crowded and when we walked to the steps fully geared up we could see that there were very few fish. We didn’t end up using our gear despite lugging it around all day. When we return to Xcaret in the future, I’ll consider the add-on snorkel tour that goes out to the reef. We’re probably just spoiled by all of our experiences snorkeling on Oahu and Big Island but we couldn’t get excited about this one, and our snorkel tour on Isla Mujeres the following week was a much better experience. 

place travel mexico xcaret

The family favorite was the underground river. If your kids are school age on up (or you’re going without kids), don’t miss this! It worked well as our last daytime activity, but you really need to allow yourself tons of time for it. We went from beginning (near the park entrance) to end (right back at the playa) and wouldn’t have done it any other way but in total all of the preparation, swimming and then changing afterwards will take you at least an hour and a half – it took us a little longer even since we lingered.

You need to go down to the river entrance first to deposit your belongings. Go to the cashier in the center and pay to rent a bag and fins. Trust me, you want the fins! Life jackets are free. Additional snorkel gear isn’t necessary. You’ll put everything you don’t want to take in the water in the giant bag – we just put our whole backpack in there along with our flip flops. Keep your phone with you in its waterproof pouch ! They gave us a locker key but we didn’t bother with it, as we had the only key to the bag (Ronnie wore it around his neck). Thankfully the bag gets transported up to the end of the river so that you’re met with your flip flops and towels! When you’re done there are changing rooms through the gift shop, and feel free to enjoy the stunning views at the top from a hammock while you warm up. 

place travel mexico xcaret

At least during our visit, most of the live performances were late in the day – around 5-5:30pm. Unfortunately that means you’ll have to choose what you want to see. Those shows do get busy, so you may have to jockey for position if you don’t arrive in advance. We opted to watch the horse exhibition, which was wonderful and featured live mariachis and bilingual narration.

place travel mexico xcaret

Xcaret Mexico Espectacular

place travel mexico xcaret

Speaking of jockeying for position… the evening spectacular begins at 7, but I recommend that your group starts heading that direction after you finish watching the live performance. Catch a glimpse of the horses as they cool down, poke into the art museum and church and slowly make your way to the massive open-air theater. There are costumed performers along the way showcasing Mayan costumes and music, so take your time as you go. Unless you’ve purchased dinner or an Xclusive ticket, seating is first-come, first-served. 

If you don’t purchase dinner, there are snacks available for purchase as you enter the theater. Most of them weren’t that great (especially the paletas and nachos), so I’d save your money. The popcorn is a solid option and you can buy it from your seat with pesos before the show begins.

place travel mexico xcaret

The evening spectacular at Xcaret eco theme park runs 7-9pm, which is prime dinner time at most resorts. Even if your resort serves food until 10, staying until the end of the show guarantees a massive crowd upon departure – through the park, the gift shop and the parking lot. I can’t imagine being able to stay for the entire show and still arriving in time for dinner. We left shortly after intermission during the state-by-State cultural performances. I was sad to miss some of them, but we walked through the positively empty park and faced no challenges getting our car out. We made it back to our hotel just in time for dinner! Next time we go, I’d book the dinner package and stay for the evening to avoid stressing about it.

place travel mexico xcaret

Xcaret Park FAQs

Xcaret is a Mexican theme park showcasing local culture, nature and adventure.

Xcaret is located just south of Playa del Carmen along the Riviera Maya.

place travel mexico xcaret

It covers 200 acres and boasts over 50 attractions ranging from cultural performances to wildlife viewing to aquatic adventures.

place travel mexico xcaret

There are more fun things to do at Xcaret Park than you can fit into a single day! You can explore a recreation of a traditional Mayan village and try your hand at various crafts ranging from candles to coconuts to cacao. There are opportunities to see many native animal species in the air, on land and in water. Xcaret Park also has adventurous options like swimming in an underground river and a kid-oriented section with waterfalls, bridges and more.

place travel mexico xcaret

Xcaret Park prices are $120 for adults and $60 for kids 5-11; children 4 and under are free. You can decrease your Xcaret cost by buying tickets here in advance .

Planning your trip to Riviera Maya with kids

  • Playa del Carmen with Kids: Best Activities that Parents Will Love Too!
  • Renting a Car in Mexico: An Insider’s Guide
  • Packing for Mexico: The List You NEED to Read
  • Tips for Amazing Mexico Family Photos
  • Mahekal Beach Resort review: Is this tropical paradise right for you?
  • Hotel Xcaret, Mexico with kids: everything you need to know about visiting with a family
  • Things to do in Cancun: Family Excursions Worth Booking
  • Playa del Carmen to Cozumel: Day Trip Ideas & Logistics
  • Rio Secreto Review: One of Riviera Maya’s Most Unique Tours
  • Moon Palace Cancun Review: Is Bigger Always Better?
  • Playa del Carmen vs Cancun, Tulum & Costa Mujeres: Pros and Cons of Each Spot for a Family Vacation
  • Best Resorts in Riviera Maya for Families (by Area)
  • 7 Best Beach Towns in Mexico That Aren’t Cancun: A Local’s Guide
  • Best Places to Stay in Yucatan for Families
  • Incredible Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula
  • Should you bring a car seat to Mexico?
  • Check out our Xcaret tips web story !

Still planning? Pin this for later!

place travel mexico xcaret

What to read next

1 thought on “xcaret park mexico: 20+ tips & tricks to make the most of your visit (2023)”.

We were there 25 or so years ago with two teenagers and had a great time. Now I want to go again!

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The Ultimate Guide to the Xcaret Parks in Riviera Maya Mexico (2024)

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Are you interested in visiting the Xcaret parks in Riviera Maya Mexico? You’ve come to the right place!

As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen , I’ve become a resident expert on the Xcaret adventure parks.

So if you’re feeling confused or overwhelmed by the names of all the Xcaret park and tours , I’ve broken it all down for you in this post.

In this ultimate guide to the Xcaret parks , you’ll learn about what they are, how to pronounce the park names, what activities you can do at each one, transportation information, park costs, money-saving tips, and more!

Ready to learn all about the Xcaret parks? Let’s get to it, starting with a quick overview chart:

Xcaret Park

🏆 Best for Families

Read Review →

Top Pick Badge

🏆 Best Value

Xplor Adventure Park

🏆 Best for Ziplining

Xavage Adventure Park

🏆 Best for ADULTS

Xplor Fuego

  • Xplor Fuego

🏆 Best at Night

Xenses Park

🏆 best on a budget

Xoximilco Xcaret

🏆 Best for party

Xibalba Xcaret

COming soon

About the Xcaret Parks

First, let’s start with some of the basics on Xcaret:

What is Xcaret?

Grupo Xcaret is the name of the company that owns and operates some of the best tourist attractions in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

The company is constantly expanding but they currently operate 8 adventure parks, 4 tour experiences, and 3 all-inclusive luxury hotels.

From unique tours and activities to luxury hotels, Xcaret has an emphasis on sustainable and socially responsible tourism that lets you plan your Mexico travels in a one-stop shop.

ℹ️ Important to Know:  Xcaret is the name of the overall company, but it’s also the name of one of the adventure parks.

Xavage Xcaret Park Entrance

How many Xcaret parks are there?

Currently, there are 8 Xcaret adventure parks, each offering a different type of adventure experience:

  • Xibalba (Coming soon)

Grupo Xcaret also offers 4 different tour experiences:

And 3 luxury hotels:

  • Hotel Xcaret Mexico
  • Hotel Xcaret Arte (adults only)
  • La Casa de la Playa (boutique adults only)

🎨 Wondering what it’s like to stay at an Xcaret hotel? Find out in my Hotel Xcaret Mexico review and Hotel Xcaret Arte review !

What can you do at Xcaret Mexico parks?

Just ask and you shall get–Xcaret adventure parks offer all the Mexican Riviera experiences you can think of!

Xcaret activities range from cultural immersion (think live entertainment and archaeological exploration) to unique outdoor activities.

The outdoor activities feature white water rafting, ziplining, snorkeling and Snuba , underground river exploration, cenote swims, monster truck challenges, and so much more.

At these one-of-a-kind Mexico theme parks, you can also enjoy elevated Mexican cuisine, whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Where are the Xcaret adventure parks?

Refer to this map of Xcaret parks for all locations of the different Xcaret parks in Mexico.

Xcaret, Xplor, and Xenses are located just south of Playa del Carmen , while Xel-Ha is closer to Tulum, and Xavage and Xoximilco are closer to Cancun.

Xcaret Parks Map

How to pronounce the Xcaret park names

If you’re not sure how to pronounce the Xcaret park names, you’re not alone!

I’ll never forget how hard my Mexican friends laughed at me the first time I tried to say “Xcaret” 😂

But I quickly learned the key to pronouncing Xcaret park names is to sound out the ‘X’ as either “s” or “sh”.

  • Xcaret = Ish-ka-ret
  • Xel-Ha = Shell-Ha
  • Xplor = Ish-plor
  • Xavage = Sha-vage
  • Xenses = Shen-ses
  • Xoximilco = So-chee-meel-koh
  • Xibalba = She-bal-ba
  • Xenotes = Shay-know-tays
  • Xichen = She-chen

How Much Do Xcaret Park Tickets Cost?

Xcaret prices vary between each park and can range from $70 USD-$175 USD per person. It’s best to check the official park websites for the most accurate prices.

💲 You can also check the Xcaret price guide to compare prices between the parks.

  • Xcaret Admission: Check prices here →
  • Xel-Ha Admission: Check prices here →
  • Xplor Admission: Check prices here →
  • Xplor Fuego Admission: Check prices here →
  • Xavage Admission: Check prices here →
  • Xenses Admission: Check prices here →
  • Xoximilco Admission: Check prices here →
  • Xenotes Admission: Check prices here →

Note that some of the Xcaret park packages come in two forms: basic admission and all-inclusive admission.

Basic admission offers a limited amount of activities, while all-inclusive offers unlimited access to all activities.

Children under 4 can enter for free, while children ages 5 to 11 have a discounted price for tickets.

How to Book Xcaret Tickets

Xcaret park tickets can be bought through the master site below, or each park’s own website.

I highly recommend booking your Xcaret tickets through their official website as it’s the safest and most secure way to book Xcaret tickets.

Plus, they allow you to create your own customized package if you’re interested in visiting more than one of the parks.

I’ve also outlined additional ways to save in the next section.

How to Save Money on Xcaret Park Tickets

There are a few different Xcaret discounts available–take advantage of these discounts outlined below to save money on Xcaret tickets and avoid paying full price for admission tickets.

🦜 Explore my Xcaret resource hub for easy access to all of my Xcaret park reviews, comparison guides, as well as current Xcaret coupons and promotional offers.

Book in advance

You can automatically save by booking online on the official park website in advance:

  • 10% off – ticket purchase 7 to 20 days in advance
  • 15% off – ticket purchase at least 21 days in advance

Create your own package

If you’re interested in visiting more than one of the Xcaret parks and tours, you can save by combining parks to create your own package:

  • 15% off – ticket purchase for any combination package of two or more parks and tours
  • 20% off – ticket purchase for any combination package of three or more parks and tours

Stay at one of the Xcaret Hotels

Staying at an Xcaret all inclusive hotel gives you all “fun-inclusive” access to the parks, meaning you get unlimited access to all of the Xcaret parks during your stay. 

This is an especially great option for families if you plan on visiting more than one of the parks.

Check out the hotel websites below for more info on these all inclusive resorts:

  • Hotel Xcaret Arte  (adults only)
  • La Casa de la Playa  (adults only)

Hotel Xcaret Mexico Pool

Resident Discounts

Xcaret also offers a special discount for Quintana Roo residents which is valid only at the park’s ticket booths, online, or through the contact center.

Tickets for Quintana Roo residents can be purchased through the website here but it is only available in the Spanish language.

You’ll need to present an Official ID of Quintana Roo to be eligible for the discount. For foreigners living in Quintana Roo, Temporary and Permanent Resident Cards are accepted.

Xcaret Parks

Let’s take a deeper look at how the Xcaret eco-parks differ from each other so you can choose which Xcaret park is best for you.

Xcaret Mexico Espectacular at Xcaret Park

  • ⭐️ KNOWN FOR : Culture, History, and Wildlife
  • 🏆 BEST FOR: Families with Small Children, Culture and Animal Lovers
  • 🕘 PARK HOURS : Daily from 8:30AM–10:30PM
  • 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets online here →

The original of Grupo Xcaret parks, Xcaret by Mexico features 50 attractions within its massive property and is considered to be one of the best Xcaret parks to visit for families.

Drawing your attention towards the country’s culture and heritage, its range of Xcaret park activities makes it the perfect choice for families.

Spend a full day out among the jungle trails, swimming in underground rivers, exploring caves, and frolicking on beaches or natural pools.

Sea Trek at Xcaret Park Mexico

Stroll through open-air aviaries, the Butterfly Pavilion and Coral Reef Aquarium; historians will love the Mayan ruins and Mexican Folk Art Museum.

Don’t miss out on the 300-member crew whose Xcaret Mexico Espectacular production tops the list of things to do in Riviera Maya !

The nightly Xcaret show is a history lesson but fun – featuring pre-Hispanic dances and more.

You can read my full Xcaret park review for all the details!

🤑 Get 20% off Xcaret Plus tickets at least 5 days in advance with coupon code SALEXC24 ! Must book by April 28, 2024.

Sea Trek at Xel Ha Xcaret Park

  • ⭐️ KNOWN FOR : Water Activities, Water Slides, Snorkeling
  • 🏆 BEST FOR: Adults and Families with Older Children
  • 🕘 PARK HOURS : Daily from 8:30AM–6:30PM

Known for aquatic adventures, Xel-Ha Park has a prime location around an inlet of the Caribbean Sea, which yields the best water activities.

Boardwalks and the Jungle Train connect all the cenotes, caves, hidden beaches, and hammock gardens. In the center lies an expansive “pool”, where red flags mark areas rich in marine life.

While swimming and snorkeling take the spotlight, this Xcaret water park isn’t just a large natural aquarium. Manmade slides, high jumps, and water ziplines add dimension to the park.

Snorkeling at Xel Ha Park

There’s even a mile-long float down the river. For land activities, check out the manatee sanctuary and Mayan port city ruins. 

Definitely climb the Scenic Lighthouse water slide for panoramic views over the park!

You can read my full Xel Ha review for all the details!

Travelista Tip:  Xel-Ha is the only Xcaret park that includes unlimited alcohol so it’s one of the best Xcaret parks for adults if you’re looking for a fun adults waterpark experience with a group of friends.

🤑 Get 25% off Xel-Ha tickets at least 3 days in advance with coupon code XCSALE24 ! Must book by April 28, 2024.

Xplor Zipline

  • ⭐️ KNOWN FOR : Ziplining, ATVs
  • 🕘 PARK HOURS : Monday-Saturday from 9:00AM–5:00PM

Xplor is the first Xcaret park I ever visited and still remains one of my favorites, offering ziplines, underground caves, and ATV experiences.

Xplor by Xcaret takes you deep into the Riviera Maya jungle landscape, where naturally carved gorges are hidden within dense forest.

The sky-high zipline course was what propelled Xcaret Xplor onto the lists of “best adventure parks in Mexico”, letting you skim above the treetops and take in the views.

Xplor Park

Some of the highest ziplines in Riviera Maya end with a vigorous drop into a cenote so be prepared to get wet!

The newest Underground Expedition activity at Xplor will have you trawling through 800 yards of subterranean trails.

Start by driving an amphibious vehicle through jungle and flooded caves, before the Rafts challenge takes you river paddling through ancient caves.

You can read my full Xplor review for all the details!

🤑 Get 25% off Xplor tickets at least 3 days in advance with coupon code XCSALE24 ! Must book by April 28, 2024.

Xplor Fuego Amphibious Vehicles

  • ⭐️ KNOWN FOR : Nighttime Ziplining, ATVs
  • 🕘 PARK HOURS : Monday-Saturday from 5:30PM–11:00PM

After 5:30PM, Xplor Park transforms into its night-time persona when sunset hits and flickering torches and cackling bonfires signal the arrival of Xplor Fuego .

Basically, Xplor Fuego is the exact same park as Xplor–only at night!

What was scenic fun in day time is now a dramatic and mysterious landscape. It’s kind of like an “extreme night adventure”.

Xplor Fuego Rafts

The same ziplines now show you starry skies, the rainforest becomes strange and haunting, and the underground rivers are illuminated only by fire torches.

End the night at Xplor Fuego with a generous BBQ buffet, and make the most of the nightscape before it closes at 11PM.

You can read my full Xplor Fuego review for all the details!

🤑 Get 25% off Xplor Fuego tickets at least 3 days in advance with coupon code XCSALE24 ! Must book by April 28, 2024.

🆚 Related Reading: Xplor vs Xplor Fuego: Which is better?

Xavage Park

  • ⭐️ KNOWN FOR : Extreme Adventure Activities
  • 🏆 BEST FOR: Adrenaline Junkies
  • 🕘 PARK HOURS : Monday-Saturday from 8:30AM–5:00PM

Located about 45 minutes north of Playa del Carmen, Xavage Park is Xcaret’s newest adventure park.

I’d equate it to an Xcaret park on steroids, since it’s where you’ll find the most adrenaline pumping activities!

Each of the extreme Xavage activities are named after animals:

  • Ropes course (Howler Monkey)
  • Superman-style ziplining (Hawk)
  • White water rafting (Barracuda)
  • Monster trucks (Puma)
  • Kayaking (Crocodile)
  • High speed jet boat experience (Dragonfly)
  • Kids pool (Serpent)

Xavage Xcaret

The white water rafting and monster truck course at Xavage are intense – and probably some of the most unique experiences you’ll find at Xcaret theme parks.

You can read my full Xavage review for all the details!

🤑 Get 25% off Xavage all-inclusive tickets at least 3 days in advance with coupon code XCSALE24 ! Must book by April 28, 2024.

The Town at Xenses Park

  • ⭐️ KNOWN FOR : Sense-Themed Activities
  • 🏆 BEST FOR: Budget Travelers or Those Short on Time
  • 🕘 PARK HOURS : Monday-Saturday from 8:30AM–7:00PM

If you haven’t gathered from its name, Xenses by Xcaret is all about challenging your senses – nothing is as it seems.

The unusual world teems with sensory deceptions, starting with an enormous water-jet-supported boulder at the entrance.

The charming streetscapes of Town at Xenses feel like an uphill climb when they’re actually level ground. Xensatorium takes you through forest, desert, and savanna without your sight.

Xenses Bird Flight Zipline

The Bird Flight zipline at Xenses has you flying horizontally while mud rivers float you through stalagmite-dotted caverns.

Don’t forget crazy photo ops either! Take a photo of the clean-water drinking fountain…set inside a toilet.

You can read my full Xenses review for all the details!

🤑 Get 25% off Xenses tickets at least 3 days in advance with coupon code XCSALE24 ! Must book by April 28, 2024.

Xoximilco Xcaret

  • ⭐️ KNOWN FOR : Mexican Floating Fiesta
  • 🏆 BEST FOR: Party Animals
  • 🕘 PARK HOURS : Monday-Saturday from 7:00PM–11:00PM

Located next to Xavage near Cancun, Xoximilco is a literal, floating fiesta!

Not your stereotypical “park”, the Xoximilco tour offers a traditional Mexican party aboard a cruise, a re-creation of the famous Xochimilco attraction outside Mexico City.

The evening begins with carnival games and live performances, followed by a scenic cruise on trajineras (flat-bottomed boats).

Local musical genres such as mariachi and norteño play background music to your Mexican dinner. Dinner is the highlight of this experience, serving tasting platters of traditional foods.

Enjoy ceviche, tamales, Oaxacan chocolate, and more. There’s also an all-night bar which serves alcoholic and fruity beverages.

You can read my full Xoximilco review for all the details!

🤑 Get 25% off Xoximilco tickets at least 3 days in advance with coupon code XCSALE24 ! Must book by April 28, 2024.

Xibalba Reserve

Xibalba Xcaret

Xibalba Reserve is the latest Xcaret experience that is still under construction with an undetermined opening date.

Representing the Mayan belief of a three-tiered universe, Xibalba is the underworld – one which you’ll explore via an underground circuit.

From the sacred Ceiba tree to 59-feet deep cenotes, your tour introduces physical spaces within the Mayan cultural context.

You’ll learn about Mayan myths, Xibalba gods, and other ancient beliefs while getting to swim, snorkel, and experience stunning underground cenotes. 

Xcaret Tours

Not a fan of adventure parks? Immerse yourself in the Mayan world with Xcaret tours!

These archaeological tours at Cancun and Riviera Maya offer comfortable travel on a panoramic bus, plus certified guides who lead you through famous historic sites.

Xenotes Tour

  • 📍 TOUR DESTINATION : Cenotes in Puerto Morelos
  • 📅 AVAILABILITY : Monday-Saturday
  • 🕘 DURATION : 8-9 hours

This unique Xcaret Xenotes tour is an all-inclusive Playa del Carmen cenote tour that brings you to four different Riviera Maya cenotes along the famous “Ruta de Cenotes” in Puerto Morelos .

Xcaret arranges a circuit of activities that include kayaking, swimming, rappelling, and ziplining, letting you experience the natural wonders of the Mexican Riviera actively.

At Lu’um Cenote, a cavern cenote with million-year-old formations, you’ll try assisted rappelling. Ziplines happen over Iik Cenote, where you can cliff jump over 20 feet high.

Xenotes Rappelling Activity

For kayaking, beautiful Ha Cenote treats you to a semi-open Xcaret cenote with hanging vegetation.

The most beautiful underwater gardens are found at K’aak’ Cenote, an ideal space for swimming and tubing.

And the best thing about the Xenotes Tour is that it’s all-inclusive, so round-trip transportation, equipment, and all meals and drinks are included.

You can read my full Xenotes review for all the details!

🤑 Get 25% off Xenotes tickets at least 3 days in advance with coupon code XCSALE24 ! Must book by April 28, 2024.

Chichen Itza Pyramid

  • 📍 TOUR DESTINATION : Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins
  • 🕘 DURATION : 12 hours

The all-inclusive Xichen by Xcaret tour brings you from Cancun or Riviera Maya to the heart of Mayan culture at the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza.

Stroll through the temples and structures with a certified Xcaret guide and learn about the mythologies behind the Pyramid of Chichen Itza .

Chichen Itza Observatory

The tour continues with a stop at a cenote for a refreshing swim, and a visit to the Valladolid downtown area. Enjoy a full-day trip that shows both ancient and contemporary sides of Yucatan!

The Xichen tour offers two different admissions:

  • Xichen Clasico : Includes Chichen Itza tour, swimming at Xcajum Cenote, Panoramic Tour of Valladolid
  • Xichen Deluxe : Includes Chichen Itza tour, swimming at Santuario Tsukan Cenote, Buffet meal at La Casona de Valladolid Restaurant

🤑 Get 25% off Xichen tickets at least 3 days in advance with coupon code XCSALE24 ! Must book by April 28, 2024.

Tulum by Xcaret

Tulum Ruins

  • 📍 TOUR DESTINATION : Tulum Ruins + Cobá, Xel-Ha, or Xenses
  • 📅 AVAILABILITY : Tuesday-Saturday

The Tulum Xcaret tour is a combo tour that takes you to the Tulum Ruins and your choice of Cobá, Xel-Ha, or Xenses.

The Tulum Ruins is the only pre-Hispanic settlement built along the Caribbean Sea, shielded only by the surrounding wall which once served as defense.

On this all-inclusive tour, you’ll get to explore the archaeological site led by a certified guide before heading to your chosen destination.

Plus, round-trip transportation, as well as meals, drinks, and snacks are included.

Cobá by Xcaret

Coba Xcaret Tour

  • 📍 TOUR DESTINATION : Cobá Ruins + Tulum Ruins or Xel-Ha

An ancient Mayan city which reigned before Chichen Itza, the Cobá Tour by Xcaret takes you back millions of years.

Climb to the top of Nohoch Muul, the tallest pyramid of Riviera Maya, and see how far the 50 ancient paved roads known as Sac-Be stretch. You’ll learn about past cultures, customs, and beliefs.

Once you’re done marveling over the ruins and surrounding jungle, embark on a bike ride and follow one of the Sac-Be roads for as long as you can.

The Cobá Xcaret tour is combo tour, so you can choose to continue onto Xel-Ha or the Tulum Ruins after Cobá.

Visiting the Xcaret Parks

Here’s the basic visitor information that you should know before visiting the Xcaret adventure parks:

Transportation

The Xcaret eco-parks are spread out across the Riviera Maya region so when planning your experience, you’ll need to consider how you’re going to get to the parks.

On Your Own

To get to each Xcaret park on your own, you can drive or rent a car , hire a taxi, or take the ADO bus (Xcaret and Xel-Ha only). If you drive, free parking is available on-site.

Xcaret Transportation Service

Most people opt for round-trip transportation service for the most hassle free option. Simply add this request at the time of purchase for an Xcaret all inclusive experience.

The Xcaret transportation cost varies by park but is typically around $30 USD per person and picks up from most major hotels in Playa del Carmen .

It’s important to know that transportation can only be added at the time of purchase , so be sure to add this when you’re buying your tickets.

If your hotel is not on the list of affiliated hotels, you’ll be given a list of meeting points where Grupo Xcaret’s official transport will pick you up.

Xcaret Bus Transportation

Food and Drink

Xcaret is known for providing more upscale food and beverage experiences but they differ between the parks.

For instance, Xcaret Park Mexico doesn’t automatically include food and drink in their packages – you have to add it to your purchase.

On the other hand, Xel-Ha offers continental breakfast, lunch buffet, snack bar and open bar (including alcohol).

Likewise, the other Xcaret adventure parks also offer buffet lunch, unlimited snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. And even though most of the restaurants are buffet style, the food is still very good!

Xcaret Buffet

Facilities and Services

The exact amenities vary but you can expect all Xcaret parks to have: rest areas, dressing rooms, lockers, restrooms, WiFi, ATM, and free parking.

Gift shops are located near the entrance where you can purchase Xcaret park photos, souvenirs, clothing, and gear.

Xavage Rest Areas

Xcaret Photos

One of my favorite takeaways from these parks is the Grupo Xcaret photos!

A Photo Pass can be added to your admission package upon purchase, which covers all group photos of up to 10 people. You can pick up your photos at the gift shops.

What’s cool is that there are cameras and “Xelfies” photo opportunities all over the parks.

Tracking technology is inserted in your helmet or wristband so they can track your photos and you’ll be able to scan and review them all at the end of the day.

The photo packages can be expensive but are a great way to capture your memories if you don’t have a GoPro or waterproof camera.

Travelista Tip: It’s cheaper to buy the Xcaret photo packages online when you’re booking your tickets rather than on the day of your visit. If you think you’re going to want park photos, be sure to add this when booking your tickets.

Xcaret Park Photos

Tips for Visiting Xcaret Parks

To make the most of your Xcaret experience, follow these easy Xcaret tips!

  • Book in advance : You’ll automatically save 15% by booking at least 21 days in advance, or 10% by booking 7-20 days in advance. It’s best to book online ahead of time to get the best deal.
  • Combine the parks to save money : You get 15% to 20% off depending on how many experiences you package together .
  • La Casa de la Playa (adults only)

Hotel Xcaret Mexico

🆚 Related Reading: Hotel Xcaret Mexico vs Hotel Xcaret Arte: Which is better?

  • Get there early and plan for a full day experience: You get to do each activity unlimited times so you’ll want to arrive early to get the most out of the price of your admission.
  • Study the Xcaret parks map: When planning your day, prioritize which activities you are most interested in and plot out a route on the Xcaret park map for maximum efficiency. You’ll also want to plan your meal times around the different activities. For example, some of the more intense activities are not the best on a full stomach!
  • Bring biodegradable sunscreen: Many of the parks are located in natural environments, beaches, and cenotes. Wearing biodegradable sunscreen is essential to protect these natural reserves.
  • Bring a GoPro or waterproof camera: The parks are action-packed and most involve water activities so you won’t be able to use your cell phone to take photos. Bring a GoPro or waterproof camera to capture your memories.
  • Wear water shoes: Pretty much all of the parks involve water activities, so having a pair of water shoes will let you run between water, beach and jungle floor comfortably and quickly.
  • Wear a one-piece swimsuit and activewear: You will most likely be getting wet so I usually always wear a one-piece swimsuit and athletic shorts to be comfortable for all activities.
  • Bring a towel: In addition, you’ll want to bring a beach towel to dry off after the water activities. These microfiber beach towels are a great option because they are super light weight and dry quickly.

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray |Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E | 6 oz

Which Xcaret Park is the Best?

So, which is the best Xcaret park? That is a tough question to answer!

Honestly, all of the Xcaret parks are worth visiting and provide tremendous value and unique and unforgettable experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Of course, everyone will have a different Xcaret park that they like the best depending on personal preferences, whether or not you have kids, or what kind of activities you like.

But if I really had to choose, here’s my list of Xcaret parks ranked:

  • Xibalba (not open yet)

If you need more help deciding between the Xcaret Mexico parks, check out my comparison guides for side-by-side comparison information:

  • Xel Ha vs Xplor
  • Xcaret vs Xplor
  • Xcaret vs Xel Ha
  • Xavage vs Xplor
  • Xplor vs Xplor Fuego
  • Xcaret vs Xel Ha vs Xplor
  • Xplor vs Xenotes

Final Thoughts: Xcaret Parks Explained

I hope this guide to the Mexico Xcaret parks was helpful if you’re interested in visiting one of these thrilling Xcaret adventure parks while visiting Riviera Maya Mexico.

I know it’s a LOT of information to digest but hopefully this Xcaret park guide has given you a better understanding of the overall Xcaret attractions and offerings to find the best Xcaret park for you.

While all the Xcaret theme parks and tours are tremendously fun, Xel-Ha is my personal favorite and the best option for water activities.

But no matter which park you choose to visit, you’re sure to have an amazing time!

Just remember to buy your park tickets on the official Xcaret website ahead of time to get the best deal!

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Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Using her Spanish language skills and expertise in Mexico travel, she is passionate about teaching others to travel Mexico like a local.

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Riviera Maya: Hotel Xcaret Mexico Package

Offering a unique experience for guests of all ages, this All-Fun Inclusive™ resort features rivers, cenotes and suspension bridges, 900 contemporary suites, numerous pools, Club Xiquillos for kids, a riverfront theater and a spa. Guests will also enjoy unlimited access to select nature parks and tours, including Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor Fuego, and more.

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Carretera Chetumal - Puerto Juarez Km 282, Solidaridad, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, 77710, Mexico

Offering a unique experience for guests of all ages, this All-Fun Inclusive™ resort features rivers, cenotes and suspension bridges, 900 contemporary suites, numerous pools, a kids' club, a riverfront theater and a spa. As part of the All Fun Inclusive™ concept, guests will enjoy unlimited access with round-trip transportation to select nature parks and tours, including Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xavage, Xoximilco, Xenses, and Xenotes.

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About Xcaret

Xcaret Admissions

How to get to

Attractions

Facilities and Services

Xcaret México Espectacular

Xplor Fuego

Xenses Insomnia

Isla Mujeres Ferry

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Catamaran to Isla Mujeres

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  • Destinations Cancun & Riviera Maya Tours
  • What to Do in México

What to do in Mexico?

Are you looking for what to do in Mexico for your upcoming vacation? As a country full of traditions, archaeological sites, and beautiful natural places, there are endless possibilities.

Some of the best places to visit in Mexico are at Cancun and Riviera Maya. The Mexican Caribbean offers astounding sites for every taste. The Mexican Caribbean offers astounding sites for every taste. No matter if you travel with family, seniors, or a group of friends, there is always fun things to do in Mexico .

Natural landscapes of Mexico

Yucatan Peninsula is home to spectacular natural landscapes. Places such as Rio Lagartos or Las Coloradas are growing popular. The first one is a haven for pink flamingos nearby a fishermen’s village. Las Coloradas is a salt mine with a characteristic pink color on the shallow waters, which is perfect for taking the most beautiful pictures.

While enjoying a vacation in Cancun or Riviera Maya Mexico, activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and adventure tours are available. Akumal in Riviera Maya is a terrific place for snorkeling since it has a stunning bay with calm waters and a reef barrier. There are sea turtles, starfish, sea urchins, and tropical fish, among other species. It is also a great spot to have lunch and rest for a while.

Theme parks in Cancun and Riviera Maya

Among the things to do in Cancun, Mexico , is taking a tour to Xcaret from Cancun and enjoy an astounding park where nature and Mexican culture combines. Get into its aviary and butterfly pavilion to discover some of the species that live in the area, and then visit the aquarium that is home for numerous specimens from the Caribbean. To end an unforgettable day at this beautiful park in Riviera Maya, attend Xcaret México Espectacular, a show full of music and dance through 500 years of history, and more than 300 artists on stage. If you are looking for an adventure, visit Xplor Cancun , a park located only minutes south of Playa del Carmen. Have a thrilling day gliding by zip-lines, driving through jungle trails and caves, or swimming in underground rivers, plus having a delicious buffet lunch.

Natural attractions

Isla Contoy is an amazing National Park located less than 20 mi from Isla Mujeres. This island and the surrounded sea are a protected area due to the enormous amount of species living there. Contoy has limited visits every day to visit its secluded beaches, besides watching the bird species that live there. Every year, from June through September, whale sharks arrived in this area and is a fabulous activity to snorkel in their habitat.

If you are looking for scuba diving, Cozumel is a fantastic option. The east side of its coastline has several coral reefs that are home for thousands of fish, and due to its clear waters, the visibility is outstanding, plus having warm weather all year round. Many experienced divemasters offer their services to visit the numerous reefs. If you are a beginner, it is possible to start with a lesson in Cozumel and start practicing this outstanding activity.

Tourist Attractions in Mexico

Some of the coolest things to do in Mexico are in the Caribbean and include colonial cities such as Valladolid Mexico . This city of almost 500 years old is close to Chichén Itzá and is the gastronomical capital of Yucatan. Places such as the San Gervasio Church, the San Bernardino de Siena Convent, and the Calzada de Los Frailes street are good examples of this era. If you take Xichén Deluxe Tour, you have a stop at La Casona de Valladolid, which is a former mansion from the 18th Century and nowadays a fantastic restaurant featuring the best of the Yucatecan cuisine.

On the outskirts of this Magical Town, there are several cenotes, which are freshwater, natural pools. Due to the limestone terrain in the Yucatan Peninsula, there are no surface rivers, but hundreds of them run beneath the earth. Many of them are connected and form the vastest underground river system in the world. Cenotes are places where the ground collapsed, creating entrances to the bowels of the Earth or Xibalba, as the Pre-Hispanic named the underworld.

South of Riviera Maya is Bacalar, which is known as the Seven Color Lagoon due to the different blue tones of its waters. This gorgeous Mexico attraction was once a pirate area and nowadays is a place of astounding beauty and peaceful ambiance.

Archaeological Sites

Pre-Hispanic archaeological sites in Mexico receive visitors from all over the world every year. Chichén Itzá is the most famous and a Mexico must see since twice a year takes place the light and shadows show during the equinox. The ancient inhabitants built the Pyramid of Kukulcan to the sun project figures on the north side of it as it goes down, to represent a feathered snake that descends from the top of the building.

Tulum in Quintana Roo, Mexico is another excellent example of the cool things to do in Mexico since it is the only ancient inhabitants city built facing the Caribbean Sea. It houses a well-preserved fresco that still has stucco elements. El Castillo, which is the principal construction built on the top of a cliff facing the sea, was a lighthouse to guide canoes safely through the coral reef barrier.

Parks and Tours

There are many things to do in Mexico , especially in the Caribbean area, where culture, archaeological zones, and natural sites are waiting for you. There are also impressive parks for families and couples, or unforgettable tours to discover the underwater world either in cenotes or the nearby reefs. Come to Mexico and spend amazing days you will always treasure.

  • 1- Playacar in Quintana Roo
  • 2- Akumal in Quintana Roo
  • 3- Cabo San Lucas in Baja California Sur
  • 4- Cancun in Quintana Roo
  • 5- Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco
  • 6- Ciudad Juarez in Chihuahua
  • 7- Playa del Carmen in Quintana Roo
  • 8- San José del Cabo in Baja California Sur
  • 9- Tijuana in Baja California Sur
  • 10- Nuevo Vallarta in Nayarit

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  1. Xcaret Tourism (2021): Best of Xcaret, Mexico

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  2. Xcaret Park Tickets

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  3. Xcaret Mexico

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  4. Xcaret Park is the All-in-One Yucatán Escape of Your Dreams

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  5. Enjoy Xcaret: The Most Famous Theme Park in Mexico

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  6. Everything You Need to Know About Xcaret Park, Mexico

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  1. Xcaret Mexico

  2. Xcaret Park

  3. La belleza de México concentrada en Occidental at Xcaret Destination

  4. Did You Know Xcaret

COMMENTS

  1. Placetravel

    El servicio, atención y cortesía de nuestro asesor Daniel fue espectacular, excepcional y excelente. La coordinación de nuestros 5 tours por Cancún, excelente transporte, seguros, cómodos, los guías amables y divertidos, buena guía turística y coordinación de Place Travel.

  2. Cancun Water Parks

    Visit this coveted destination with a special offer for both children and adults to enjoy in a place considered Mexico's Majestic Paradise. Your Xcaret experience will be complemented by first-class facilities and services such as lockers, showers, snorkeling equipment, stores, and various restaurants to delight your palate with Mexican and ...

  3. Xcaret

    It's a pleasure to read that you had enjoyed our natural and cultural attractions at Xcaret, and we are thrilled to know that your visit met your expectations. We hope you will visit us again very soon! Cordially, José P. Grupo Xcaret - Customer Service. + 52 (998) 883-3143 - US 855-326-0682. Read more.

  4. Here's what you need to know before you visit Xcaret in Mexico

    Full details here. The difference in price, from the basic admission, is an increase of $35.00 CAD per adult ($17.00 CAD for kids). The Xcaret Plus package gives you the following: Access to Area Plus facilities including restrooms, dressing rooms and showers. Use of snorkeling equipment, life jackets and inner tubes.

  5. Hotel Xcaret México: All Inclusive in Riviera Maya

    Hotel Xcaret Mexico is a sophisticated hotel that has redefined the concept of Cancun and Playa del Carmen all-inclusive with its innovative All-Fun Inclusive™, being the first resort in Riviera Maya to offer access to all the parks by Grupo Xcaret. Its sustainable architecture integrates the hotel's facilities into nature while paying tribute to the traditions of Mexico, thus preserving ...

  6. Xcaret, Mexico: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024)

    Tours Add a Place Travel Forum Airlines Travelers' Choice Help Center. Plan Your Trip to Xcaret: Best of Xcaret Tourism. ... Hotel Xcaret Mexico. 12,852. from $507/night. Hotel Xcaret Arte. 3,584. 2024. La Casa de La Playa. 502. Hotel Casa Kaoba. 49. from $40/night. Palmaïa The House of AïA. 1,304.

  7. Cancun Attractions and Activities: Choose your favorite

    One of the best wine cellars in Mexico is right here at Xcaret. Located in an unexpected place, it houses the finest labels of Mexican wine. Reservations and information: [email protected] and at (998) 8 49 52 59. Location: find it in Del Río Route (Black) More Information.

  8. Hotel Xcaret Mexico

    Now $1,103 (Was $̶1̶,̶2̶6̶9̶) on Tripadvisor: Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Riviera Maya/Playa del Carmen. See 12,820 traveler reviews, 18,992 candid photos, and great deals for Hotel Xcaret Mexico, ranked #41 of 282 hotels in Riviera Maya/Playa del Carmen and rated 4 of 5 at Tripadvisor.

  9. The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Mexico's Xcaret National Park

    Mexico's Xcaret park in Cancun is an eco-extravaganza of things to see and do. Formerly an important Mayan port and town, Xcaret is the size of 40 football fields, and although it has been called Mexico's Disney World, it's unique for its insights into traditional Mayan culture and its luxurious location right on the beach.

  10. Hotel Xcaret Mexico

    Hotel Xcaret Mexico. 12,858 reviews. NEW AI Review Summary. #13 of 41 all-inclusives in Playa del Carmen. Carretera Federal Chetumal-Puerto Juárez, Av. Solidaridad 2-Kilómetro 282 Lt 023, Playa del Carmen 77710 Mexico. Visit hotel website. 011 52 800 795 4525. E-mail hotel.

  11. Xcaret Reviews

    Options closest to the park include Hotel Xcaret Mexico and Occidental at Xcaret. ... Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024.

  12. Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort

    ALL-FUN INCLUSIVE ®. Our All-Fun Inclusive™ concept is an experience that has redefined and surpassed the traditional all-inclusive hotel concept in Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya since December 2017.. All-Fun Inclusive™ benefits included in a Hotel Xcaret México booking are access and transportation to all Grupo Xcaret parks, premium dining experiences, and round-trip airport transfers.

  13. Hotel Xcaret Mexico Travel Guide

    Paradise by the Sea — Hotel Xcaret Mexico is a Luxury All-Inclusive Masterpiece of the Riviera Maya. Hotel Xcaret Mexico is the latest addition to the Xcaret family. It's a magical place where eco-friendliness, sustainability, luxury, and adventure come together offering all-inclusive accommodations to guests traveling to the Riviera Maya.

  14. Xcaret Packages

    XCARET + XEL-HÁ. Visit the two best parks in Cancun and Riviera Maya. Discover the charm at Mexico's Majestic Paradise and get surrounded by nature at an all-inclusive park where you can snorkel as much as you want. Schedule: Xcaret Monday to Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Xel-Há Monday to Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

  15. Top 15 Tips to Have the Best Day at Xcaret Mexico

    9. Swimming the Xcaret Underground River. It takes roughly an hour to float the entire length of the underground river. If you, or your kids, are not interested in swimming the full length of the underground river, you can get out at several spots along the way (we didn't finish the whole thing).

  16. Hotel Xcaret Mexico

    Hotel Xcaret Mexico is an all-inclusive resort resting between the edge of the jungle and the Caribbean sea. This resort blends into the natural landscape with cenotes, rivers, coves and suspension bridges which create an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages. Guests can also access select natural parks and tours, including Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor Fuego, and more.

  17. Xcaret Park Mexico: 20+ Tips & Tricks to Make the Most of Your Visit

    Next, try to find your way to the blue line for aquatic creatures. Then hook up the the green line (Playa) to make your way to the "snack bar.". After lunch, go back toward the park entrance to begin the underground river. Speaking of snack bar… clearly the definition isn't the same as in America.

  18. The Ultimate Guide to the Xcaret Parks in Riviera Maya Mexico (2024)

    Xcaret prices vary between each park and can range from $70 USD-$175 USD per person. It's best to check the official park websites for the most accurate prices. You can also check the Xcaret price guide to compare prices between the parks. Xcaret Admission: Check prices here →.

  19. México Destination Club

    The new All-Fun Inclusive ® concept by Hoteles Xcaret offers various travel experiences that will provide lots of experiences for resting, relaxation and having fun, revolutionizing the traditional all-inclusive concept. When you stay at Hoteles Xcaret, you enjoy unlimited access and transportation to Grupo Xcaret's Parks as many times as you wish; an extraordinary culinary selection ...

  20. Xcaret and Xoximilco

    Experience the best of Mexico at Xcaret Park, an amazing place with different spaces of nature and underground rivers that will amaze you. Here, you can also visit a spectacular Aviary, a Butterfly Pavilion and a Coral Reef Aquarium. And to end the night marvel with a show that will make you feel Mexico on your skin, Xcaret Mexico Espectacular.

  21. Xcaret Tickets

    Monday to Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Children: 25% discount from 5 to 11 years old on the adult price. Children under 4 years free. Under 4 years old have free admission. More information. We are in maintenance, contact us at our customer service numbers <br /> MEXICO:998-883-3143 USA-CAN:1-855-326-0682.

  22. Riviera Maya: Hotel Xcaret Mexico Package

    Riviera Maya: Hotel Xcaret Mexico Package. Offering a unique experience for guests of all ages, this All-Fun Inclusive™ resort features rivers, cenotes and suspension bridges, 900 contemporary suites, numerous pools, Club Xiquillos for kids, a riverfront theater and a spa. Guests will also enjoy unlimited access to select nature parks and ...

  23. What to do in Mexico?

    Some of the best places to visit in Mexico are at Cancun and Riviera Maya. The Mexican Caribbean offers astounding sites for every taste. The Mexican Caribbean offers astounding sites for every taste. ... To end an unforgettable day at this beautiful park in Riviera Maya, attend Xcaret México Espectacular, a show full of music and dance ...